Ovechkin’s still got it, and the Kings might finally have it: Early Stanley Cup playoff takeaways

Ovechkin’s Still Got It, and the Kings Might Finally Have It: Early Stanley Cup Playoff Takeaways

As the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs kick off, the first 13 games have already given us plenty to talk about. The Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning have finally joined the fray, and every team has had a chance to showcase their postseason personas. So, who’s making waves early on, and who needs to step up their game? How will these initial performances shape the rest of Round 1 and the entire postseason? ESPN reporters Ryan S. Clark, Kristen Shilton, and Greg Wyshynski have shared their insights on the early action across all eight series.

Read more:
Full schedule
Intel on all 16 teams
Top 50 players
Wyshynski’s bracket
Contender flaws

In Just Two Games, the Avs-Stars Series Once Again Proves That All Contributions Are Needed

In the much-anticipated first-round series between the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars, the series is tied at 1-1. Logan O’Connor, earning just over $1 million this season, is a point away from being tied for the postseason lead in scoring. Meanwhile, Colin Blackwell, on a one-year contract worth $775,000, scored his second-ever playoff goal to prevent the Avs from taking a 2-0 series lead.

While stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Jake Oettinger, and Mikko Rantanen are expected to play significant roles, the supporting cast is crucial for either team to advance. The Avs’ fourth line, featuring O’Connor, Jack Drury, and Parker Kelly, has already contributed two goals and seven points. The Stars’ fourth line, with Blackwell, Oskar Back, and Sam Steel, has four points, with each forward averaging over 10 minutes of ice time. The Stars’ bottom-six group was responsible for two of their three goals in Game 2.

Can the Core Four Actually Dominate a Playoff Series?

The Maple Leafs’ Core Four, consisting of Mitch Marner, William Nylander, Auston Matthews, and John Tavares, have started to silence their critics. In Game 1 against Ottawa, Marner led with three points, while Nylander, Matthews, and Tavares each added two points. Tavares continued his strong performance in Game 2 with a goal and an assist, while Marner, Nylander, and Matthews each picked up assists.

Marner’s performance is particularly noteworthy given his past playoff struggles. If the Core Four can maintain their production, the Leafs may finally realize their postseason potential. Toronto’s success hinges on their top strikers, and where they go, the team will follow.

The Old Guy Has Still Got It

Whenever Alex Ovechkin scores, especially at home in D.C., it brings a special excitement. In Game 1 against Montreal, Ovechkin scored on the power play to give the Capitals a 1-0 lead and later netted the overtime winner, marking his first postseason overtime goal.

Ovechkin’s leadership and ability to rise to the occasion are invaluable for the Capitals. His performance in critical moments, like shutting down the Canadiens’ upset bid, highlights his MVP-worthy season. If the Capitals can fend off Montreal, Ovechkin’s contributions will be a key reason why.

Are We Currently Watching the Best Version of Mark Scheifele … Ever?

The Winnipeg Jets have faced questions about their playoff performance, but their 2-1 win in Game 2 against the St. Louis Blues gives them a 2-0 series lead for the first time since 2021. Mark Scheifele has been instrumental, scoring or creating all but two of the Jets’ seven goals. His consistency and two-way play have been crucial, and he’s just a point shy of matching his playoff output from last year.

It’s the Tkachuks’ World (We’re Just Living in It)

For the first time in NHL history, two Tkachuks scored in Stanley Cup playoff games on the same night. Matthew Tkachuk, a postseason veteran, returned from injury to score two power-play goals for the Florida Panthers. Meanwhile, Brady Tkachuk scored his first playoff goal for the Ottawa Senators. The Tkachuks’ performances highlight their impact on their respective teams, and the possibility of a second-round matchup between them adds intrigue to the playoffs.

Carolina’s Fresh Faces Fitting in Fine

The Hurricanes have moved on from Mikko Rantanen, but their new additions are making an impact. Logan Stankoven, acquired in the Rantanen trade, scored two goals in Game 1 against New Jersey. His chemistry with Jordan Staal and depth scoring are valuable assets for Carolina. Taylor Hall, another midseason acquisition, has also contributed positively, and the Hurricanes’ balanced lineup bodes well for their playoff success.

What Version of the Kings Will Show Up in Game 2 Against the Oilers?

The Los Angeles Kings took a 1-0 series lead with a 6-5 win over the Edmonton Oilers. Despite building a four-goal lead, the Kings were reminded of the Oilers’ ability to close gaps. Phillip Danault’s late goal secured the win, but the Kings must prove they can overcome their playoff nemesis and advance to the second round.

Special Teams Already Playing a Special Role

The Vegas Golden Knights, despite drawing few penalties, have a potent power play. They capitalized on both power-play opportunities in Game 1 against the Minnesota Wild. Special teams have been a significant factor in the playoffs, with power plays converting at a record rate. Teams like Toronto and Colorado have also benefited from strong special teams play, and it remains to be seen how this will influence the rest of the postseason.

Kirill Kaprizov vs. Everyone

Kirill Kaprizov has been a standout for the Minnesota Wild, contributing to five of their seven goals against the Golden Knights. His three-point performance in Game 2 helped the Wild tie the series. Despite a season limited by injury, Kaprizov is proving to be Minnesota’s offensive savior in the playoffs, and his contributions will be crucial as the series continues.