Max Pacioretty's late-game heroics propelled the Toronto Maple Leafs to a decisive 4-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators, clinching their first-round playoff series. Pacioretty's tiebreaking goal came with under six minutes remaining, highlighting his clutch performance in the postseason. William Nylander shined with two goals, including a last-minute empty-netter, while Auston Matthews contributed with a power-play goal in the first period. In goal, Anthony Stolarz made 20 saves to secure the win, while Ottawa's efforts were bolstered by goals from Brady Tkachuk and David Perron, with Thomas Chabot providing two assists. The Maple Leafs will now advance to face the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, in the next round.

Buffalo Sabres forward Zach Benson is dealing with an illness, while JJ Peterka has returned to the lineup. Meanwhile, Carolina's Dmitry Orlov is back after a five-game absence due to an upper-body injury, but Andrei Svechnikov remains sidelined for the fourth straight game. Columbus has seen forwards Cole Sillinger and Sean Monahan back on the ice, indicating potential returns as day-to-day updates come from Coach Dean Evason. In Detroit, Elmer Soderblom and Erik Gustafsson are both day-to-day with undisclosed injuries, and Jeff Petry is traveling but not ready for the weekend.

In Philadelphia, Rasmus Ristolainen is not expected back soon, while the Panthers' Dmitry Kulikov is week-to-week, but could return before the season wraps. Ottawa's Nick Jensen is still out, and Pittsburgh's Tommy Novak is day-to-day after missing time since March 9. Coaches are keeping fans updated on players' statuses as teams prepare for upcoming matchups.

Injury reports loom large as multiple NHL teams navigate player absences. The Anaheim Ducks are facing a setback with forwards Sam Colangelo and Ross Johnston sidelined by upper-body injuries, missing their last game. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres are dealing with uncertainty regarding Josh Norris, who missed practice due to an undisclosed injury, and JJ Peterka, who is out with a lingering lower-body issue.

The Calgary Flames are managing a week-to-week absence for Mikael Backlund due to an upper-body injury sustained during a recent game. The Carolina Hurricanes continued to miss Andrei Svechnikov and Dmitry Orlov, with the latter sidelined for four consecutive games. Nashville Predators forward Michael Bunting made his return from IR, while the Winnipeg Jets await updates on Neal Pionk's week-to-week absence and have Nikolaj Ehlers back in the lineup.

Injury issues continue to plague several NHL teams as the season progresses. Carolina Hurricanes forward Andrei Svechnikov skipped practice, while defenseman Dmitry Orlov took to the ice. The Columbus Blue Jackets are dealing with the absence of Jake Christiansen due to an upper-body injury, sidelining him for the next game. The Dallas Stars are hopeful for Roope Hintz's return this Sunday after a puck-related facial injury. Edmonton Oilers forward Mattias Janmark missed a game due to illness.

In Minnesota, the Wild's Jonas Brodin returned to practice after a long absence but remains week-to-week. Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek are also still out with injuries. The New Jersey Devils are bracing for the long-term absences of Dougie Hamilton and Jack Hughes, potentially impacting their playoff hopes. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators are monitoring Brady Tkachuk's hip concern closely as he aims to return on Saturday.

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Dmitry Orlov sat out for the first time this season due to a minor tweak, as confirmed by coach Rod Brind'Amour. Orlov, who played all games in the previous season, felt unfit during warm-ups. His absence impacted the team's defensive pairings, especially after Riley Stillman was injured early in the game against the Boston Bruins. The Hurricanes adapted and secured a 3-2 victory, despite the disruptions.

The trade deadline loomed, adding pressure, especially on winger Mikko Rantanen, who has struggled with performance consistency since his acquisition from Colorado. Rantanen registered three shots but also had three turnovers in the game, highlighting the need for clarity and focus as the deadline approaches.