The first 13 games of the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs are finally in the books, with the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning joining the party. Each team has had a shot to show their new postseason selves. But who stood out and who needs to step up? How will all of this impact Round 1 and the rest of the postseason? ESPN reporters Ryan S. Clark, Kristen Shilton, and Greg Wyshynski have highlighted their top takeaways from the first set of games, covering all eight series.
In just two games, the Avs-Stars series is showing that every contribution counts. One player makes slightly more than $1 million this season, and the other still has three games left on his $775,000 contract. Yet, their performances have been crucial in why the highly anticipated first-round series between the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars is tied at 1-1. Logan O’Connor is on the brink of being tied for the postseason scoring lead, while Colin Blackwell’s second playoff goal prevented the Avs from taking a 2-0 series lead before heading back to Denver.
The Maple Leafs’ Core Four has heard criticisms about their playoff performances in the past. But in Game 1 against Ottawa, Mitch Marner led the charge with three points, while William Nylander, Auston Matthews, and John Tavares each added a pair of points. Marner’s efforts have been especially noteworthy given his playoff struggles in the past. If Marner & Co. can continue to produce in the playoffs like they do in the regular season, the Leafs might finally fulfill their postseason potential.
When Alex Ovechkin scores goals, especially in D.C., it brings to mind something Tom Wilson mentioned earlier this season. Wilson noted the extra excitement whenever Ovechkin scores, as he’s always the most thrilled guy on the ice when anyone else scores. Ovechkin proved his worth in Game 1 against Montreal and his overtime heroics, showing that he’s still the pacesetter for the Capitals. Despite Ovechkin’s incredible season, his MVP performance seems to be overlooked in the Hart Trophy race.
Are we witnessing the best version of Mark Scheifele ever? The Winnipeg Jets have faced numerous challenges over the years, making it out of the first round only twice since 2011. But Scheifele’s dominance in the first two games against the St. Louis Blues is undeniable. With Scheifele taking charge, the Jets have a chance to make a deep playoff run this year.
The Tkachuks made history in the NHL playoffs by both scoring goals on the same night for the first time. Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk showcased their skills, each making their mark on their respective teams. The potential for a Tkachuk showdown in the second round adds an exciting element to the playoffs.
The Hurricanes have integrated new faces into their lineup seamlessly, with Logan Stankoven and Taylor Hall making immediate impacts. Stankoven’s two-goal performance in Game 1 against New Jersey showed that he’s a perfect fit for Carolina’s style of play. The Hurricanes’ depth scoring has been crucial in past playoff runs, and these fresh faces could be the key to their success this year.
The Kings’ unpredictable nature makes them an intriguing team to watch in the playoffs. After a thrilling win in Game 1 against the Oilers, the Kings are looking to maintain their momentum. Can they finally overcome their perennial challengers and advance to the second round?
Special teams have played a significant role in the early playoff action, with power plays making a difference in several matchups. Teams like Toronto, Colorado, and Los Angeles have capitalized on their power-play opportunities, setting the tone for the rest of the series.
Kirill Kaprizov has been a standout performer for the Minnesota Wild, contributing to five of the team’s seven goals in their series against the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite his injury-shortened regular season, Kaprizov has been a key player in the playoffs, helping the Wild even the series at 1-1. His impact on the ice could be the difference-maker for Minnesota in their quest for an upset over the Golden Knights.
