Reaction from the field
The current NHL standings reflect a fierce competition, particularly between the Colorado Avalanche and the Dallas Stars, who are now the two best teams in the league. The stakes are high as both teams aim for the top position in their division, which could significantly influence their playoff seeding. As of March 18, 2026, the Avalanche lead the standings, but the Stars have made a remarkable comeback, reducing their points gap from 12 to just 3 points.
The Minnesota Wild are also in the mix, currently sitting third in the Central Division with 88 points, making them a formidable contender as the season progresses. This tight race for the top spot highlights the competitive nature of the league, with each game becoming increasingly crucial as teams jockey for playoff positioning.
Brendan Gallagher of the Montreal Canadiens is set to reach a personal milestone, playing his 900th career game against the Boston Bruins. This achievement places him among the 13th players in Canadiens history to reach such a milestone, underscoring his significance to the team and the league. Gallagher’s presence on the ice will be pivotal as the Canadiens strive to improve their standing.
In recent games, the Tampa Bay Lightning, Columbus Blue Jackets, Buffalo Sabres, and New York Islanders all secured victories on March 17, 2026, further complicating the standings. The Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov had an outstanding performance, scoring three goals and providing two assists in a decisive 6-2 victory over the Seattle Kraken. His contributions are vital as the Lightning aim to solidify their position in the playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers achieved a significant win against the San Jose Sharks, distancing themselves from the Sharks in the standings. The Oilers’ victory not only boosts their confidence but also highlights the ongoing battle for playoff spots, with teams striving to secure their positions as the regular season nears its conclusion.
Chris MacFarland, the Avalanche’s general manager, emphasized the importance of the upcoming games, stating, “Whether we win or lose on Wednesday, it’s not the end of the world. There is still a long way to go.” This sentiment reflects the understanding that while each game is critical, the broader picture of the season remains in focus.
Jim Nill, the Stars’ general manager, echoed similar sentiments, noting that both teams have few weaknesses and that games like these are crucial for their playoff preparations. “It’s probably the easy way out to avoid a question, but we just want to prepare for the playoffs,” he added, indicating a strategic approach as the teams gear up for the postseason.
As the NHL season progresses, the standings will continue to evolve, and the competition will only intensify. With several teams in contention for playoff spots, fans can expect thrilling matchups in the coming weeks. Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential trades or injuries that could further impact the standings, keeping the excitement alive in the league.
