The 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs begin on April 19. The Winnipeg Jets are the NHL's top overall seed, having finished the regular season with the most points in the standings, and the Washington Capitals earned the No. 1 seed in the East.

The 2-3 matchup from the Metropolitan Division between New Jersey and Carolina pits two teams whose seasons didn't go entirely according to plan, and though expectations have had to change somewhat, both are eyeing a long run this spring.