NHL Teams Gear Up for Make-or-Break Playoffs As the National Hockey League's regular season comes to a close, 16 teams are preparing for the most intense and thrilling time of the year: the playoffs. With a coveted Stanley Cup championship within reach, each team's performance will be put to the ultimate test. NHL.com's Divisional Deep Dive provides an in-depth analysis of the Western Conference's Central and Pacific divisions, where fierce rivalries and high-stakes matchups await. From the Colorado Avalanche's quest for a third consecutive division title to the Los Angeles Kings' bid to return to the playoffs, get ready for a wild ride in the NHL's postseason.