The stage is set for the most thrilling round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs yet - the conference finals. As the NHL's top teams battle it out for a spot in the championship series, hockey fans are eagerly anticipating the high-stakes matchups that promise to deliver heart-stopping action and unforgettable moments. In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Bruins are looking to overcome their recent playoff struggles and claim their first Stanley Cup title in over a decade, while the Tampa Bay Lightning seek to build on their dominant regular season form. Meanwhile, in the Western Conference, the Dallas Stars are aiming to bring home their first championship since 1999, facing off against either the Vegas Golden Knights or the Colorado Avalanche in a series that promises to be a clash of titans. With the conference finals set to tip off, here's what you need to know about the key storylines and matchups to watch.
What to watch in the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the conference finals arrive Times Union