The highly anticipated NHL Stanley Cup playoffs are finally here, and fans are gearing up for a thrilling ride. The first round of the playoffs is set to kick off, with a mix of seasoned powerhouses and underdog teams vying for a spot in the coveted championship. A total of eight teams will face off in each of the four conference series, with the winners advancing to the second round. From the defending Stanley Cup champions to newcomers looking to make a statement, every matchup promises to deliver high-stakes hockey action. Which upsets will occur, and which teams will emerge victorious to move on to the next round?
What to know about the first-round matchups in the NHL's Stanley Cup playoffs Messenger-Inquirer
