As the NHL gears up for an action-packed Thursday night with nine games scheduled, the focus sharpens on key matchups in the Western Conference. The Nashville Predators face the Dallas Stars at 8 p.m. ET, where the Predators, eliminated from playoff contention, are reeling from a four-game losing streak. Meanwhile, the Stars boast a strong position in the Central Division, aiming for a President's Trophy bid.

Later, the Los Angeles Kings take on the Utah Hockey Club at 9 p.m. ET, looking to solidify their playoff position after back-to-back wins. Lastly, the Winnipeg Jets, currently leading the NHL standings, hope to break a losing streak against the Vegas Golden Knights at 10 p.m. ET, who have had the upper hand in their recent encounters. With significant playoff implications on the line, these games promise thrilling performances and strategic betting opportunities.

As the NHL season winds down, it's crucial for fantasy hockey enthusiasts to capitalize on emerging players in daily fantasy sports (DFS). This April 2, 2025, lineup includes standout picks across all positions. Goalie Logan Thompson is a key choice against the Carolina Hurricanes, while Aatu Raty, a rising center for the Vancouver Canucks, offers excellent value at a low price, having recently scored three goals in his last four games.

On the wing, Jaden Schwartz from the Seattle Kraken boasts impressive recent stats, with a stellar return on investment in his last five outings. Defensively, Sam Malinski of the Colorado Avalanche is making waves by filling in for an injured player and consistently racking up shots and blocks. Utilizing these players can give DFS players a competitive edge amidst a crowded slate.

The NHL's final month has seen Alex Ovechkin inch closer to Wayne Gretzky's historic goal record, now just four goals away after scoring his 891st in Boston. Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights secured their playoff berth following a Calgary loss, marking a successful campaign in which they clinched a spot in seven of their first eight seasons. The St. Louis Blues are riding a 10-game winning streak, taking the first Wild Card spot in the Western Conference, while the Montreal Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets are also vying for playoff positions, demonstrating the high stakes of this late-season push.

Rookies Ryan Leonard and Jimmy Snuggerud made their NHL debuts, creating excitement as fans look forward to their contributions. Ovechkin's performance continues to be a focal point, as his scoring prowess and charity contributions gain attention. The playoff race intensifies with teams like the Canadiens, led by Nick Suzuki's overtime winner, and the Blue Jackets, where Kirill Marchenko's hat trick underscores their offensive firepower. Betting enthusiasts should keep an eye on these developments as team rosters solidify and performance metrics come into play.

Leon Draisaitl extended his lead in the NHL goal-scoring race, netting his 52nd of the season during a crucial 5-on-3 power play that led the Edmonton Oilers to a 3-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite the loss, the Golden Knights secured a playoff berth due to the Calgary Flames' defeat.

Vegas, however, couldn't capitalize on opportunity, as their six-game winning streak came to an end. With only seven points separating them from the Oilers in the Pacific Division, the battle intensifies as both teams have eight regular-season games remaining.

In addition to Draisaitl's performance, Jake Walman and Viktor Arvidsson also found the net for the Oilers, while Calvin Pickard made 20 saves. Pavel Dorofeyev and Nicolas Roy contributed goals for the Golden Knights, with Dorofeyev leading the team with 32 goals this season. Notably, Jack Eichel's impressive six-game point streak concluded in this match.

Jack Eichel of the Vegas Golden Knights, John Tavares of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues have been named the NHL's three stars of the month for March.

Eichel dominated with 23 points over 14 games, including eight goals, leading the Golden Knights to a strong 10-2-2 performance. Tavares also excelled, netting a league-high 13 goals and contributing seven assists, propelling the Maple Leafs to an 8-5-2 record in March. Binnington played a key role in the Blues' success, winning eight of nine starts and helping the team secure a place in the playoff hunt with a 12-2-1 record.

Additionally, Lane Hutson of the Montreal Canadiens was recognized as the top rookie for March, leading all first-year players with 15 points, including one goal and 14 assists, further supporting the Canadiens' playoff aspirations.