Updated bracket heading into second round of 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs

The field is wrapping up the first round of the NHL playoffs. We take a look at the developing bracket for the second round of the NHL playoffs.

The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are underway and the second round matchups are coming into focus. We don’t have a start date for the next round, but it will likely be around May 4 or 5, depending on if any of the first round series go seven games.

The Carolina Hurricanes were the first team to clinch and their second-round opponent, the Washington Capitals, followed them. Here’s a look at the updated playoff bracket as the second-round field continues to settle.

2023 NHL playoff bracket: Second Round

Eastern Conference

No. 2 MET Carolina Hurricanes vs. No. 1 MET Washington Capitals

The Hurricanes and Capitals both won their opening series in five games. Carolina rolled over the New Jersey Devils while Washington thumped the Montreal Canadiens. The two teams split their four-game regular season series. The final game of the season series was the only one to go to overtime.

TBD vs. TBD

Western Conference

TBD vs. TBD

TBD vs. TBD