When do the NHL Playoffs Start?

The race for the NHL Playoffs has begun, and the Canadiens must play better than they have this season to find a spot in the wild card.

Feb 6, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Montreal Canadiens goaltender Sam Montembeault
Feb 6, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Montreal Canadiens goaltender Sam Montembeault / Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Each year, there is always a surprise team or two in the NHL Playoffs, and the Canadiens could be that group if they enjoy a strong late-season run. They are off to a good start, having secured a 5-2 win over the Washington Capitals in their first game back from the All-Star Break, but they are still well outside of even a wild card.

However, we have also seen teams look finished just after the break or even the trade deadline, which is also fast approaching. Therefore, it’s still fair to at least speculate about the Canadiens and their chances for the playoffs this season. 

When will the NHL Playoffs begin in 2024?

The Canadiens still have another 32 games to accumulate enough points to make the 2024 NHL Playoffs, which begin on April 20th this year. 

What must the Canadiens do to land a playoff spot?

Whether or not they keep selling leading up to and at the trade deadline, the Canadiens need their best players to step up and play some phenomenal hockey. But they also need to get better when they aren’t in possession of the puck. So far this year, Montreal ranks 29th overall in goals allowed with 177. Overall, their productivity is lacking on both sides of the ice, more urgency will at least give them a chance.

A recent history of the Canadiens in the NHL Playoffs

Although the Canadiens missed the playoffs in the previous two seasons, it hasn’t been too long since they shocked the NHL landscape and appeared in the Stanley Cup Final. In 2021, Montreal accumulated just enough points to land a spot in the playoffs as the bottom seed. After defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets, and Vegas Golden Knights, Montreal stalled against the Tampa Bay Lightning, but it was nevertheless an exciting ride.

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