The 2024 NHL Playoffs starts on Saturday, April 20. So far, seven teams have scored playoff bids, which means there are plenty of chances for other teams to make a late run to the NHL’s postseason. Check out a list of those playoff teams, odds to win the 2024 Stanley Cup, and early Stanley Cup Playoff picks.

2024 Stanley Cup Playoff Update

We're nearing the end of the race to the #StanleyCup Playoffs…

Who would win these matchups if it all started today? pic.twitter.com/kmFp69hxSv

— NHL (@NHL) March 22, 2024

Eastern Conference Playoff Teams… So Far

As of March 31, the Boston Bruins has 101 points, which means Boston would be the top seed heading into the postseason in the Eastern Conference.

Florida, though, is only 2 points behind and has an incredible +57 goal differential. The Panthers are the likely top seed.

Rangers versus Hurricanes, if it comes down to that in the Eastern Conference, should be epic. The Rangers are +51 in goal differential. Carolina is +56.

Carolina is 3 points behind NYR on the Metro standings. The Hurricanes could for sure make up the difference from now until April 20.

Western Conference Playoff Teams… So Far

Stars versus Avs continues to one of the top division battles this season. The Stars show a +58 goal differential, while the Avalanche are at +56. Dallas is solid and has a real shot of securing the top seed in the Western Conference Playoffs.

For most of the season, NHL experts expected Vancouver to fall back. The Canucks haven’t. Vancouver is 6 points ahead of Edmonton and 10 points ahead of Vegas in the Pacific.

The Canucks have gone 6-3-1 in their last 10 ending on March 31. Their goal differential is +58.

2024 NHL Playoffs Postseason Picks

Top Pick to Win the 2024 Stanley Cup

The Carolina Hurricanes have won 3-of-4 heading into a huge matchup against the Boston Bruins on April 4. Pay close attention to that game.

If Sebastian Aho and his mates impress, consider the Hurricanes one of the favorites to win it all. Carolina has the defense, offense, and experience to lift the Cup. So for sure, put Aho and his buds on your Stanley Cup list.

Second Pick to Win the 2024 Stanley Cup

The odds on the Vancouver Canucks show zero respect. Vancouver plays against Vegas and Edmonton. So far, those two teams haven’t overtaken Vancouver.

The prediction is they won’t. Quinn Hughes, Brock Boeser, and J.T. Miller are as solid as it gets. Expect the threesome to ensure a deep playoff run.

Third Pick to Win the 2024 Stanley Cup

This could be the New York Rangers’ season. Artemi Panarin leads the team in goals, assists, and points. So if Panarin continues his Hart Trophy like play, the Rangers will be a tough out for any club in the NHL Playoffs.

Ah, but that’s the double-edged sword. If Panarin doesn’t have a great playoff, or if he gets injured, the Rangers’ season is over.

Fourth Pick to Win the 2024 Stanley Cup

The defending champs are rounding into their best form. Although Vegas has yet to secure a playoff seed, the Golden Knights should make the postseason.

Jonathan Marchessault and Mark Stone have begun to pick it up. Vegas is 7-2-1 in their last 10 ending on March 31. Give the Knights a big chance.

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Check out our latest sports betting guides for the 2023-24 NHL season. Stay tuned for more hockey previews and articles, and don’t forget to check out the latest NHL betting odds at our online Crypto sportsbook.

READ MORE: 2024 NHL Playoffs Bold Betting Predictions