The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs are still in their infancy, yet two teams are already out, and three teams are facing elimination.
The Oilers, Penguins, and Bruins are down 3-1 in their respective series and on the brink of joining the Kings and Senators with early postseason exits. For Edmonton and Pittsburgh, this position is unexpected; both teams were significant favorites in their first-round matchups.
While erasing a two-game deficit is difficult, it isn't impossible. Sixteen teams have accomplished the feat since 2000, and three have done so within the last five postseasons.
Series odds
| Team | Odds | Team | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks | -450 | Oilers | +340 |
| Flyers | -800 | Penguins | +475 |
| Sabres | -1800 | Bruins | +900 |
The Oilers are the most likely team to make a successful comeback. After Sunday night's crushing overtime loss to the Ducks, they are +330 to advance to the second round. Oddsmakers give Connor McDavid and Co. a 23.3% chance of winning three straight. The Oilers are -165 favorites in Game 5 and will play Game 7 at home if the series goes that far.
The Penguins will be the first of this group to play in a do-or-die game when they host the Flyers on Monday. Pittsburgh is a -135 favorite in Game 5 and is +475 (17.4% implied probability) to win the series.
The Oilers and Penguins are each the far more experienced club in their opening-round series. McDavid and Sidney Crosby will be relied upon heavily if their teams have any hope of rallying.
While there's a decent chance that either the Oilers or Penguins can storm back, the same can't be said for the Bruins. Boston was dismantled by Buffalo in Game 4, losing 6-1 at home. Now the Bruins head to Buffalo with their backs against the wall. Oddsmakers give the Bruins just a 10% chance of completing a comeback.
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