The Stanley Cup Playoffs are finally here! In this Thursday edition of Locked on NHL, Nick Zararis (Locked On Oilers) and Hunter Hodies (Locked On Penguins) deliver a deep-dive, stats-heavy preview of the first-round matchups. From the health of Miro Heiskanen to the "God Mode" potential of Jake Oettinger, we break down why the Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild series is destined for seven games. We also pivot to the Eastern Conference to give our definitive series picks for the Carolina Hurricanes vs. Ottawa Senators, the high-flying Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins, and the "Cinema" matchup between Tampa Bay and Montreal.

Plus, we analyze the Pacific Division seeding chaos: Will Edmonton face Anaheim or the Kings?

05:31 Importance of five-on-five play

09:15 Minnesota team player analysis

12:18 Quick take on Carolina vs Ottawa

14:16 Playoff struggles without a superstar

17:18 Buffalo vs. Boston prediction

22:43 Stuart Skinner's playoff impact

23:53 Penguins vs. Flyers series preview

28:56 Predicting Edmonton vs. Anaheim series outcome

29:47 Discussing Edmonton vs. Anaheim playoffs

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