As the NHL playoffs heat up, hockey fans are eager to dissect the early trends and storylines emerging from the first few rounds of competition. In a recent analysis, experts have weighed in with their too-early takes on the season, covering everything from the Minnesota Wild's surging special teams to the Philadelphia Flyers' defensive struggles. One notable observation is the Wild's ability to score crucial goals on the power play, a skill that could prove crucial in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Flyers' defensive woes have raised concerns about their ability to contain top opponents. Other takes include the impact of injuries on key players and the surprising emergence of certain teams. With the playoffs still in their early stages, these observations offer a glimpse into what could shape the rest of the postseason.


8 too-early takes from the NHL playoffs: Wild special teams, Flyers’ D, and more  The New York Times