The Colorado Avalanche are optimistic that all players will be ready for Game 1, scheduled for Saturday. However, the Dallas Stars face uncertainty as defenseman Miro Heiskanen may not return for the playoffs due to knee surgery, despite recent skating sessions. Stars forward Tyler Seguin has been activated from LTIR but Jason Robertson left the last game with a lower-body injury, creating additional concerns. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers' Matthew Tkachuk is hopeful to play in Game 1 after a recent return to the ice.

In other injury news, Dougie Hamilton of the New Jersey Devils successfully returned after missing 18 games. Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators is a game-time decision for their regular-season finale. The Pittsburgh Penguins are dealing with Kris Letang's heart surgery recovery, expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks. Meanwhile, players like Jared McCann, Elvis Merzlikins, and others continue to navigate their respective injuries as the playoffs approach.