IceHockeyMan

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day May 7, 2026

Date: May 10, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Montreal Canadiens vs Buffalo Sabres

Faceoff: 01:00 CET

Montreal Canadiens – Projected lineup

Forwards
Cole Caufield – Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkovsky
Zachary Bolduc – Jake Evans – Kirby Dach
Additional offensive support
Depth rotational units

Defense
Lane Hutson – Noah Dobson
Ivan Demidov support structure
Additional defensive layers

Goalies
Jakub Dobes – Expected
Jacob Fowler

Power Play 1
Nick Suzuki – Cole Caufield – Juraj Slafkovsky
Ivan Demidov – Lane Hutson

Power Play 2
Jake Evans – Zachary Bolduc – Kirby Dach
Alex Newhook – Noah Dobson

Injured: Patrik Laine (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Montreal continues to build around speed, puck movement and young offensive skill. Suzuki, Caufield, Slafkovsky, Demidov and Hutson remain the main engines behind the Canadiens’ attack, while Dobson adds another important puck-moving layer on the second power-play unit. Dobes expected gives Montreal stability entering another high-pressure playoff game.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Montreal must pressure Buffalo’s exits before the Sabres establish transition rhythm.
Transition Signal: Suzuki and Demidov remain Montreal’s main pace-driving creators.
Blue Line Signal: Hutson and Dobson give Montreal dynamic offensive support from the back end.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dobes expected keeps Montreal’s defensive structure predictable and organized.
X-Factor Signal: Montreal needs clean puck management because Buffalo punishes turnovers extremely quickly.

Buffalo Sabres – Projected lineup

Forwards
Zach Benson – Tage Thompson – Jack Quinn
Jason Zucker – Ryan McLeod – Alex Tuch
Additional scoring depth
Bottom-six support rotation

Defense
Rasmus Dahlin – Bowen Byram
Support defensive structure
Additional depth pairings

Goalies
Alex Lyon – Expected
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

Power Play 1
Tage Thompson – Zach Benson – Jack Quinn
Rasmus Dahlin – Josh Doan

Power Play 2
Ryan McLeod – Jason Zucker – Alex Tuch
Bowen Byram – Josh Norris

Injured: Noah Ostlund (OUT), Justin Danforth (IR), Jiri Kulich (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Buffalo still carries one of the fastest transition identities in the postseason. Dahlin and Byram continue to drive the pace from the blue line, while Thompson, Quinn, Tuch and McLeod create layered offensive pressure through speed and quick puck movement. Lyon expected keeps the Sabres stable in goal entering another important playoff matchup.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Buffalo wants aggressive puck recovery and fast offensive-zone reloads.
Transition Signal: Dahlin remains the primary pace accelerator from the back end.
Blue Line Signal: Dahlin and Byram still provide elite puck-distribution potential.
Goalie Stability Signal: Lyon expected gives Buffalo a calm structure behind an aggressive style.
X-Factor Signal: Buffalo becomes dangerous when the defense activates into second-wave offense.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Even
Transition Edge: Sabres slight edge
Defensive Stability: Even
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Buffalo projects to carry slightly more transition pressure through its blue-line mobility, while Montreal’s route depends on creativity, efficient puck movement and quick offensive execution.

Matchup: Anaheim Ducks vs Vegas Golden Knights

Faceoff: 03:30 CET

Anaheim Ducks – Projected lineup

Forwards
Chris Kreider – Mikael Granlund – Troy Terry
Alex Killorn – Ryan Poehling – Beckett Sennecke
Leo Carlsson support structure
Additional depth rotation

Defense
John Carlson – Jackson LaCombe
Cutter Gauthier support pairings
Additional defensive depth

Goalies
Lukas Dostal – Confirmed
Ville Husso

Power Play 1
Mikael Granlund – Chris Kreider – Troy Terry
Leo Carlsson – John Carlson

Power Play 2
Ryan Poehling – Alex Killorn – Beckett Sennecke
Jackson LaCombe – Cutter Gauthier

Injured: Radko Gudas (DTD), Drew Helleson (OUT), Petr Mrazek (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Anaheim continues to lean heavily on youthful speed and offensive creativity. Carlsson, Terry, Gauthier, Sennecke and McTavish still provide the offensive upside, while Dostal confirmed remains the Ducks’ most important stabilizing factor. The uncertainty around Gudas also affects Anaheim’s physical defensive identity.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Anaheim needs selective pressure and disciplined defensive spacing.
Transition Signal: Carlsson and Terry remain the main pace-driving threats.
Blue Line Signal: Carlson and LaCombe must move pucks quickly before Vegas establishes cycle pressure.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dostal confirmed gives Anaheim a real chance to survive long defensive stretches.
X-Factor Signal: Anaheim’s young offensive core must finish efficiently because Vegas rarely gives away momentum twice.

Vegas Golden Knights – Projected lineup

Forwards
Jack Eichel – Pavel Dorofeyev – Mitch Marner
William Karlsson – Brett Howden – Ivan Barbashev
Tomas Hertl support structure
Depth playoff rotation

Defense
Shea Theodore – Rasmus Andersson
Noah Hanifin support pairing
Additional defensive structure

Goalies
Carter Hart – Expected
Adin Hill

Power Play 1
Jack Eichel – Pavel Dorofeyev – Mitch Marner
Tomas Hertl – Shea Theodore

Power Play 2
William Karlsson – Brett Howden – Ivan Barbashev
Rasmus Andersson – Noah Hanifin

Injured: Jeremy Lauzon (OUT), Mark Stone (OUT), Alex Pietrangelo (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Vegas still carries major offensive control through Eichel, Marner, Theodore, Hertl and Hanifin, but the absence of Stone removes an important playoff leadership and two-way presence. Karlsson returning to the power-play structure helps stabilize the depth scoring layers, while Hart expected gives Vegas a clear crease plan.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Vegas wants extended offensive-zone pressure and controlled puck possession.
Transition Signal: Eichel and Marner remain elite controlled-entry creators.
Blue Line Signal: Theodore and Hanifin continue to anchor Vegas puck movement.
Goalie Stability Signal: Hart expected keeps the defensive structure composed and stable.
X-Factor Signal: Without Stone, Vegas needs stronger secondary scoring support around the top unit.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Golden Knights edge
Transition Edge: Golden Knights slight edge
Defensive Stability: Golden Knights edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Vegas projects to control more possession and playoff structure despite missing Stone, while Anaheim’s path depends on Dostal, quick-strike offense and surviving extended defensive-zone pressure.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie starts and special-teams units before official warmup confirmation.

Why are projected lineups important in the playoffs?
Because playoff hockey depends heavily on matchups, injuries, defensive structure and goalie stability.

What does expected goalie mean?
It means the goalie is projected to start but has not yet been officially confirmed.

What does confirmed goalie mean?
It means the goalie has officially been named as the starter.

Why are power-play units important?
Because they reveal offensive hierarchy and show how teams plan to generate scoring pressure.

How important are injuries in playoff hockey?
Very important, especially when top centers, defensemen or leaders are unavailable.

Why does IHM include tactical notes?
Because understanding structure and matchup logic matters more than only listing names.

What should readers analyze first?
Goalie status, center depth, top defensive pairings and transition-driving players.

Can projected lineups change before puck drop?
Yes. Warmups, late scratches and coaching adjustments can still modify the final lineup.

Why are playoff power plays so important?
Because one special-teams sequence can completely shift momentum and game control.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a tactical summary evaluating offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive structure and projected control.

Why does playoff structure matter more than regular-season style?
Because playoff hockey is tighter, more physical and far more dependent on repeatable execution.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day May 7, 2026

Date: May 6, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Buffalo Sabres vs Montreal Canadiens

Faceoff: 01:00 CET

Buffalo Sabres – Projected lineup

Forwards
Jason Zucker – Tage Thompson – Ryan McLeod
Zach Benson – Josh Norris – Alex Tuch
Depth offensive rotation
Checking and support units

Defense
Rasmus Dahlin – Bowen Byram
Additional defensive pairings
Support rotation

Goalies
Alex Lyon – Expected
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

Power Play 1
Tage Thompson – Jason Zucker – Ryan McLeod
Rasmus Dahlin – Bowen Byram

Power Play 2
Josh Norris – Zach Benson – Alex Tuch
Josh Doan – Jack Quinn

Injured: Sam Carrick (DTD), Noah Ostlund (OUT), Justin Danforth (IR), Jiri Kulich (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Buffalo continues to lean into its modern speed-and-skill structure with Dahlin, Byram, Thompson, Tuch, McLeod and Norris driving transition pressure. Lyon expected gives the Sabres continuity in goal, while the blue line still provides one of the strongest puck-moving foundations in the playoffs.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Buffalo wants quick recoveries and layered offensive-zone pressure.
Transition Signal: Dahlin and Byram remain the key pace accelerators from the back end.
Blue Line Signal: The Sabres still own a strong puck-moving defensive structure.
Goalie Stability Signal: Lyon expected gives Buffalo a calm and controlled crease option.
X-Factor Signal: Buffalo’s offensive depth can create matchup problems if Montreal loses defensive spacing through the neutral zone.

Montreal Canadiens – Projected lineup

Forwards
Cole Caufield – Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkovsky
Zachary Bolduc – Kirby Dach – Alexandre Texier
Additional scoring depth
Bottom-six support rotation

Defense
Mike Matheson – Noah Dobson
Lane Hutson – support pairings
Additional defensive structure

Goalies
Jakub Dobes – Expected
Jacob Fowler

Power Play 1
Nick Suzuki – Cole Caufield – Juraj Slafkovsky
Ivan Demidov – Lane Hutson

Power Play 2
Kirby Dach – Zachary Bolduc – Alexandre Texier
Mike Matheson – Noah Dobson

Injured: Patrik Laine (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Montreal still brings one of the most dangerous young offensive cores in the postseason. Suzuki, Caufield, Slafkovsky, Demidov and Hutson continue to drive creativity and transition pace, while Dobson’s inclusion on the second power-play unit gives the Canadiens another layer of blue-line control.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Montreal must pressure Buffalo’s exits before Dahlin and Byram fully activate the transition game.
Transition Signal: Suzuki and Demidov remain the central pace manipulators for the Canadiens.
Blue Line Signal: Hutson and Dobson increase Montreal’s offensive blue-line mobility.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dobes expected keeps Montreal’s crease structure stable entering another high-pressure matchup.
X-Factor Signal: Montreal needs disciplined puck management because Buffalo punishes turnovers quickly through transition.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Even
Transition Edge: Sabres slight edge
Defensive Stability: Sabres slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Buffalo projects to carry more repeatable transition pressure through its puck-moving defense, while Montreal’s route depends on young offensive skill, creativity and quick-strike execution.

Matchup: Anaheim Ducks vs Vegas Golden Knights

Faceoff: 03:30 CET

Anaheim Ducks – Projected lineup

Forwards
Chris Kreider – Leo Carlsson – Troy Terry
Alex Killorn – Mason McTavish – Beckett Sennecke
Additional offensive support
Depth rotation

Defense
Mikael Granlund – John Carlson structure
Jackson LaCombe – Cutter Gauthier support unit
Additional defensive depth

Goalies
Lukas Dostal – Confirmed
Ville Husso

Power Play 1
Leo Carlsson – Chris Kreider – Troy Terry
Mikael Granlund – John Carlson

Power Play 2
Mason McTavish – Alex Killorn – Beckett Sennecke
Jackson LaCombe – Cutter Gauthier

Injured: Radko Gudas (OUT), Petr Mrazek (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Anaheim continues to lean on youthful skill and offensive pace with Carlsson, Terry, McTavish, Sennecke and Gauthier carrying much of the attack-driving responsibility. Dostal confirmed gives the Ducks a defined crease plan, but the absence of Gudas still reduces defensive bite and crease-clearing presence.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Anaheim must avoid getting trapped in extended defensive-zone cycles.
Transition Signal: Carlsson and Terry remain the most important pace carriers.
Blue Line Signal: Carlson and LaCombe must move pucks efficiently under Vegas pressure.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dostal confirmed is critical if Anaheim wants to survive Vegas offensive volume.
X-Factor Signal: Anaheim needs its young skill players to convert chances before Vegas settles into game control.

Vegas Golden Knights – Projected lineup

Forwards
Mitch Marner – Jack Eichel – Mark Stone
Ivan Barbashev – Brett Howden – Tomas Hertl
Additional playoff depth
Bottom-six support structure

Defense
Pavel Dorofeyev – Shea Theodore structure
Noah Hanifin – Rasmus Andersson
Additional defensive support

Goalies
Carter Hart – Expected
Adin Hill

Power Play 1
Mitch Marner – Jack Eichel – Mark Stone
Pavel Dorofeyev – Shea Theodore

Power Play 2
Ivan Barbashev – Brett Howden – Tomas Hertl
Noah Hanifin – Rasmus Andersson

Injured: Jeremy Lauzon (OUT), Alex Pietrangelo (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Vegas still looks like the more structurally complete playoff team. Eichel, Marner, Stone, Hertl, Theodore, Hanifin and Andersson provide elite puck control, experience and layered offensive pressure. Even without Pietrangelo, the Golden Knights continue to control pace effectively through possession and defensive discipline.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Vegas wants controlled wall pressure and repeated offensive-zone possession.
Transition Signal: Eichel and Marner remain elite controlled-entry creators.
Blue Line Signal: Theodore and Hanifin continue to anchor Vegas puck movement.
Goalie Stability Signal: Hart expected gives Vegas a stable playoff crease structure.
X-Factor Signal: Vegas becomes dangerous when Anaheim gets stretched defending the cycle and cross-ice puck movement.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Golden Knights edge
Transition Edge: Golden Knights edge
Defensive Stability: Golden Knights edge
Goaltending Edge: Slight Golden Knights edge
Game Control Projection: Vegas projects to control puck possession and playoff structure through deeper defensive layers and more mature offensive sequencing, while Anaheim’s path depends on Dostal, speed and efficient finishing from its young core.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups show expected forward lines, defense pairs, goalies and power-play units before official warmup confirmation.

Why do projected lineups matter in the playoffs?
Because playoff hockey is heavily matchup-driven and every lineup adjustment can impact the series balance.

What does a confirmed goalie mean?
It means the starting goalie has officially been confirmed by the team or reliable lineup source.

What does expected goalie mean?
It means the goalie is projected to start but not yet officially confirmed.

Why are power-play units important?
They reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and tactical deployment in key scoring situations.

How important are injuries in playoff hockey?
Very important, because missing top centers, defensemen or goalies can completely shift matchup structure.

Why does IHM include tactical signals?
Because line combinations alone do not explain how teams are likely to function under playoff pressure.

What should readers focus on first?
Goalie status, center depth, top defense pairs and transition-driving players.

Can line combinations reveal strategy?
Yes. Coaches often adjust lines to emphasize speed, defensive structure or matchup control.

When are final lineups confirmed?
Usually during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

Why are playoff power plays so important?
Because special teams often decide low-scoring postseason games.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a tactical summary measuring offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending and projected game control.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day May 6, 2026

Date: May 5, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Minnesota Wild vs Colorado Avalanche

Faceoff: 02:00 CET

Minnesota Wild – Projected lineup

Forwards
Kirill Kaprizov – Ryan Hartman – Mats Zuccarello
Marcus Johansson – Marco Rossi – Matt Boldy
Vladimir Tarasenko – Danila Yurov – Yakov Trenin
Depth rotation – checking line structure

Defense
Quinn Hughes – Brock Faber
Jake Middleton – Jared Spurgeon
Depth rotation

Goalies
Filip Gustavsson – Confirmed
Jesper Wallstedt

Power Play 1
Matt Boldy – Kirill Kaprizov – Mats Zuccarello
Quinn Hughes – Brock Faber

Power Play 2
Ryan Hartman – Marcus Johansson – Vladimir Tarasenko
Jake Middleton – Jared Spurgeon

Injured: Jonas Brodin (OUT), Joel Eriksson Ek (OUT), Charlie Stramel (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Minnesota goes with Gustavsson confirmed, which is critical in a matchup where defensive structure and rebound control matter against Colorado’s speed. The Wild still have high-end offensive creativity through Kaprizov, Boldy, Zuccarello and Tarasenko, but the absence of Eriksson Ek removes an important two-way center element that usually stabilizes both matchup play and defensive coverage.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Minnesota should apply pressure in controlled waves, not open-chase sequences against Colorado speed.
Transition Signal: Kaprizov and Boldy remain the primary play drivers and entry creators.
Blue Line Signal: Hughes and Faber must handle puck movement cleanly under pressure.
Goalie Stability Signal: Gustavsson confirmed gives Minnesota a defined and reliable crease plan.
X-Factor Signal: Without Eriksson Ek, Minnesota must protect the middle of the ice with tighter defensive layers.

Colorado Avalanche – Projected lineup

Forwards
Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Gabriel Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin
Nazem Kadri – depth rotation – Nicolas Roy structure
Energy line with speed support

Defense
Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Sam Malinski – depth rotation
Additional defensive support units

Goalies
Scott Wedgewood – Expected
Mackenzie Blackwood

Power Play 1
Nathan MacKinnon – Artturi Lehkonen – Martin Necas
Devon Toews – Nazem Kadri

Power Play 2
Brock Nelson – Gabriel Landeskog – Valeri Nichushkin
Cale Makar – Sam Malinski

Injured: Josh Manson (DTD), Joel Kiviranta (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Colorado continues to operate with one of the highest ceilings in the playoffs. MacKinnon, Makar, Toews, Landeskog, Nichushkin and Nelson give the Avalanche a combination of speed, puck control and offensive layering that can overwhelm teams if the pace opens up. Wedgewood expected provides stability, even if the true edge still comes from Colorado’s ability to dictate tempo.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Colorado thrives on quick pressure and second-touch puck recovery.
Transition Signal: MacKinnon and Makar remain the most dangerous pace drivers in the matchup.
Blue Line Signal: Makar and Toews give Colorado a strong puck-moving advantage.
Goalie Stability Signal: Wedgewood expected keeps the crease predictable and structured.
X-Factor Signal: Colorado wants to force Minnesota into a faster game where defensive gaps become exposed.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Avalanche edge
Transition Edge: Avalanche clear edge
Defensive Stability: Slight Avalanche edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Colorado projects to control the pace and create more high-danger situations through speed and puck movement, while Minnesota’s best path is a structured, disciplined game with strong goaltending and controlled counterattacks.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups show expected forward lines, defense pairs, goalies and special teams before official confirmation.

How accurate are projected lineups?
They are usually close but can change due to late scratches, injuries or coaching decisions.

Why are starting goalies important?
The starting goalie directly affects game flow, confidence and defensive structure.

What does confirmed goalie mean?
It means the team or reliable source has officially named the starting goalie.

What does expected goalie mean?
It means the goalie is projected to start but not officially confirmed yet.

Why are power play units included?
They reveal offensive hierarchy and which players are trusted in key scoring situations.

How do injuries affect lineups?
Missing key players can change matchups, defensive structure and scoring depth.

Why are playoff lineups more important?
Because matchups, structure and goalie performance have greater impact in playoff games.

What should fans analyze first?
Center depth, top defense pairs, goalie status and overall team structure.

Can lineups reveal strategy?
Yes. They show whether a team prioritizes speed, defense, physical play or puck control.

When are final lineups confirmed?
Usually during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

Why does IHM add tactical analysis?
Because understanding how a lineup functions is more important than just listing player names.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day May 5, 2026

Date: May 4, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Carolina Hurricanes vs Philadelphia Flyers

Faceoff: 01:00 CET

Carolina Hurricanes – Projected lineup

Forwards
Andrei Svechnikov – Sebastian Aho – Seth Jarvis
Nikolaj Ehlers – Logan Stankoven – Jackson Blake
Taylor Hall – Jordan Staal – Jordan Martinook
William Carrier – Mark Jankowski – Eric Robinson

Defense
Jaccob Slavin – Jalen Chatfield
K’Andre Miller – Sean Walker
Shayne Gostisbehere – Mike Reilly

Goalies
Frederik Andersen – Confirmed
Brandon Bussi

Power Play 1
Sebastian Aho – Nikolaj Ehlers – Seth Jarvis
Shayne Gostisbehere – Andrei Svechnikov

Power Play 2
Logan Stankoven – Taylor Hall – Jackson Blake
K’Andre Miller – Jordan Staal

Injured: Alexander Nikishin (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Carolina enters with Andersen confirmed, which gives the Hurricanes a stable crease behind one of the most repeatable playoff systems in the league. Nikishin being out removes some blue-line activation, but the Hurricanes still have enough structure, forecheck depth and special-teams balance to control the matchup. Aho, Jarvis, Svechnikov, Ehlers and Gostisbehere give Carolina multiple ways to create pressure without forcing the game open.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Carolina should continue to pressure in layers and force Philadelphia into rushed exits.
Transition Signal: Aho, Ehlers and Jarvis give the Hurricanes clean entry quality and controlled pace.
Blue Line Signal: Gostisbehere and Miller become more important with Nikishin unavailable.
Goalie Stability Signal: Andersen confirmed gives Carolina the calmer playoff crease profile.
X-Factor Signal: Carolina can take control if its power play creates movement before Philadelphia sets its penalty-kill box.

Philadelphia Flyers – Projected lineup

Forwards
Tyson Foerster – Noah Cates – Travis Konecny
Trevor Zegras – Christian Dvorak – Matvei Michkov
Denver Barkey – Sean Couturier – Porter Martone
Luke Glendening – Garnet Hathaway – Depth rotation

Defense
Travis Sanheim – Rasmus Ristolainen
Cam York – Jamie Drysdale
Nick Seeler – Emil Andrae

Goalies
Dan Vladar – Expected
Samuel Ersson

Power Play 1
Noah Cates – Tyson Foerster – Travis Konecny
Porter Martone – Jamie Drysdale

Power Play 2
Trevor Zegras – Denver Barkey – Matvei Michkov
Christian Dvorak – Rasmus Ristolainen

Injured: Owen Tippett (DTD), Nikita Grebenkin (OUT), Ty Murchison (OUT), Rodrigo Abols (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Philadelphia still has enough pace and offensive creativity to threaten Carolina, especially through Konecny, Foerster, Zegras, Michkov and Drysdale. The key concern is Tippett’s day-to-day status because his direct speed and shot threat are important against a Hurricanes team that compresses space quickly. Vladar expected gives the Flyers a workable crease plan, but Philadelphia must protect him with clean exits and disciplined support below the puck.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Philadelphia needs aggressive first pressure but cannot lose structure behind it.
Transition Signal: Zegras and Michkov are the main creativity triggers, while Tippett’s status affects direct speed.
Blue Line Signal: Drysdale and Ristolainen must move pucks quickly before Carolina’s forecheck reloads.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vladar expected can keep Philadelphia in the game if rebound control stays clean.
X-Factor Signal: The Flyers must create fast-strike chances before Carolina turns the game into extended zone pressure.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Hurricanes edge
Transition Edge: Hurricanes slight edge
Defensive Stability: Hurricanes edge
Goaltending Edge: Hurricanes slight edge
Game Control Projection: Carolina projects to control more of the repeatable playoff structure through forecheck pressure, confirmed goaltending and deeper defensive layers, while Philadelphia needs speed, special-teams execution and strong Vladar support to destabilize the matchup.

Matchup: Vegas Golden Knights vs Anaheim Ducks

Faceoff: 03:30 CET

Vegas Golden Knights – Projected lineup

Forwards
Ivan Barbashev – Jack Eichel – Mark Stone
Brett Howden – Mitch Marner – Pavel Dorofeyev
Reilly Smith – Tomas Hertl – Keegan Kolesar
Cole Smith – Nic Dowd – Colton Sissons

Defense
Brayden McNabb – Shea Theodore
Noah Hanifin – Rasmus Andersson
Ben Hutton – Kaedan Korczak

Goalies
Carter Hart – Confirmed
Adin Hill

Power Play 1
Jack Eichel – Mitch Marner – Pavel Dorofeyev
Mark Stone – Shea Theodore

Power Play 2
Tomas Hertl – Ivan Barbashev – Brett Howden
Noah Hanifin – Rasmus Andersson

Injured: Jeremy Lauzon (OUT), Alex Pietrangelo (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Vegas enters with Carter Hart confirmed and still owns the more mature playoff structure. Pietrangelo and Lauzon being out reduce some defensive depth and physical edge, but Theodore, Hanifin, Andersson, Eichel, Marner, Stone and Hertl give the Golden Knights a strong game-control base. Their power-play setup has enough high-end puck skill to punish Anaheim if the Ducks spend too much time defending.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Vegas can pressure with support and structure without opening counterattack lanes.
Transition Signal: Eichel and Marner remain the main controlled-entry creators.
Blue Line Signal: Theodore and Hanifin must carry more responsibility with Pietrangelo and Lauzon unavailable.
Goalie Stability Signal: Hart confirmed gives Vegas a clear crease advantage in preparation and rhythm.
X-Factor Signal: Vegas can control the game if it turns Anaheim’s young skill into repeated defensive-zone shifts.

Anaheim Ducks – Projected lineup

Forwards
Chris Kreider – Leo Carlsson – Troy Terry
Alex Killorn – Mikael Granlund – Beckett Sennecke
Mason McTavish – Ryan Poehling – Cutter Gauthier
Jeffrey Viel – Tim Washe – Ian Moore

Defense
Jackson LaCombe – Jacob Trouba
Pavel Mintyukov – John Carlson
Tyson Hinds – Drew Helleson

Goalies
Lukas Dostal – Expected
Ville Husso

Power Play 1
Beckett Sennecke – Mason McTavish – Cutter Gauthier
Jackson LaCombe – Alex Killorn

Power Play 2
Leo Carlsson – Chris Kreider – Troy Terry
Mikael Granlund – John Carlson

Injured: Jansen Harkins (DTD), Ross Johnston (DTD), Radko Gudas (OUT), Petr Mrazek (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Anaheim has enough young scoring talent to create problems, especially through Carlsson, Terry, Gauthier, McTavish and Sennecke. Dostal expected gives the Ducks a realistic chance to stay in the game, but Gudas being out removes defensive bite and crease-clearing presence. Against Vegas, Anaheim cannot rely only on skill flashes. The Ducks need disciplined exits, compact neutral-zone layers and strong goaltending.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Anaheim must pressure selectively and avoid giving Vegas easy odd-man counters.
Transition Signal: Carlsson and Terry remain the main pace connectors for Anaheim’s attack.
Blue Line Signal: LaCombe and Carlson are key to moving pucks before Vegas locks the zone.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dostal expected is the central survival piece against Vegas pressure.
X-Factor Signal: Anaheim needs its young power-play weapons to produce before Vegas takes full control at five-on-five.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Golden Knights edge
Transition Edge: Golden Knights slight edge
Defensive Stability: Golden Knights edge
Goaltending Edge: Golden Knights slight edge
Game Control Projection: Vegas projects to control structure, possession rhythm and special-teams pressure, while Anaheim needs Dostal, disciplined neutral-zone play and fast finishing from its young core to keep the matchup unstable.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie plans and special-teams units based on the latest team information before puck drop.

Are these NHL projected lineups final?
They are useful but not guaranteed. Coaches can still make changes after warmups, injury updates or game-time decisions.

Why are projected goalies important?
Goalies directly influence game control, confidence, defensive structure and matchup risk.

What is the difference between expected and confirmed goalies?
Expected means the goalie is likely to start. Confirmed means the team or a lineup source has confirmed the starter.

Why are power play units included?
Power play units reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and which players are trusted in high-leverage situations.

Why do injuries matter in playoff lineups?
A missing top defenseman, center or goalie can change the tactical balance of a playoff game.

How should readers analyze projected lineups?
Focus on center depth, top defense pairs, goalie status, injuries and whether the team’s normal identity is still intact.

Can special teams decide playoff games?
Yes. One power-play goal or one failed penalty kill can decide a tight playoff game.

Why does IHM add tactical signals?
Because player names alone do not explain how the lineup may function under real game pressure.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a quick tactical summary of offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending edge and projected game control.

When are final NHL lineups usually confirmed?
Most final confirmations come during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after publication?
Late goalie changes, injury updates, scratches and power-play adjustments that shift the tactical balance.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day May 4, 2026

Date: May 3, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens

Faceoff: 00:00 CET

Tampa Bay Lightning – Projected lineup

Forwards
Gage Goncalves – Brayden Point – Nikita Kucherov
Brandon Hagel – Anthony Cirelli – Jake Guentzel
Zemgus Girgensons – Yanni Gourde – Nick Paul
Corey Perry – Dominic James – Oliver Bjorkstrand

Defense
J.J. Moser – Darren Raddysh
Ryan McDonagh – Erik Cernak
Charle-Edouard D’Astous – Emil Lilleberg

Goalies
Andrei Vasilevskiy – Confirmed
Jonas Johansson

Power Play 1
Brayden Point – Jake Guentzel – Nikita Kucherov
Brandon Hagel – Darren Raddysh

Power Play 2
Dominic James – Gage Goncalves – Nick Paul
Charle-Edouard D’Astous – Corey Perry

Injured: Pontus Holmberg (OUT), Victor Hedman (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Tampa Bay has Vasilevskiy confirmed again, which gives the Lightning the strongest stabilizing piece in this matchup. The absence of Hedman still changes the blue-line ceiling, but Kucherov, Point, Guentzel and Hagel keep Tampa’s top unit extremely dangerous. D’Astous returning to the power-play picture also gives the second unit a cleaner puck-moving option.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Tampa should attack Montreal’s young puck movers early and force rushed defensive-zone decisions.
Transition Signal: Point and Kucherov remain the main pace controllers and the most dangerous entry creators.
Blue Line Signal: Without Hedman, Tampa still lacks its normal elite defensive distribution layer.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vasilevskiy confirmed gives Tampa a clear playoff goaltending edge.
X-Factor Signal: Tampa’s PP1 must turn possession into direct shot pressure instead of overpassing around Montreal’s box.

Montreal Canadiens – Projected lineup

Forwards
Cole Caufield – Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkovsky
Alexandre Texier – Alex Newhook – Ivan Demidov
Zachary Bolduc – Kirby Dach – Oliver Kapanen
Jake Evans – Phillip Danault – Josh Anderson

Defense
Mike Matheson – Alexandre Carrier
Kaiden Guhle – Lane Hutson
Jayden Struble – Arber Xhekaj

Goalies
Jakub Dobes – Expected
Jacob Fowler

Power Play 1
Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkovsky – Ivan Demidov
Cole Caufield – Lane Hutson

Power Play 2
Kirby Dach – Zachary Bolduc – Alexandre Texier
Mike Matheson – Alex Newhook

Injured: Noah Dobson (DTD), Patrik Laine (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Montreal still leans into youth, speed and creativity, with Demidov and Hutson giving the Canadiens a dangerous deception layer on the power play. Dobson moving to day to day is important because his possible return would improve Montreal’s defensive structure and puck movement, but for now the Canadiens still need to protect Dobes carefully against Tampa’s elite finishers.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Montreal must keep pressure active and avoid sitting back against Tampa’s veteran puck control.
Transition Signal: Suzuki and Demidov are the key players for controlled entries and quick attack creation.
Blue Line Signal: Hutson gives Montreal offensive upside, but Tampa can target space behind aggressive blue-line movement.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dobes is expected and must stay sharp against lateral puck movement.
X-Factor Signal: Montreal’s young power-play unit can shift the game if Hutson and Demidov create fast east-west movement.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Lightning edge
Transition Edge: Even
Defensive Stability: Lightning slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Lightning clear edge
Game Control Projection: Tampa projects to control the calmer playoff structure through Vasilevskiy and veteran execution, while Montreal needs speed, power-play creativity and disciplined puck management to make the game unstable.

Matchup: Colorado Avalanche vs Minnesota Wild

Faceoff: 03:00 CET

Colorado Avalanche – Projected lineup

Forwards
Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Gabriel Landeskog – Nazem Kadri – Valeri Nichushkin
Ross Colton – Brock Nelson – Nicolas Roy
Parker Kelly – Jack Drury – Logan O’Connor

Defense
Brett Kulak – Cale Makar
Devon Toews – Sam Malinski
Nick Blankenburg – Brent Burns

Goalies
Scott Wedgewood – Confirmed
Mackenzie Blackwood

Power Play 1
Nazem Kadri – Gabriel Landeskog – Martin Necas
Nathan MacKinnon – Cale Makar

Power Play 2
Brock Nelson – Artturi Lehkonen – Valeri Nichushkin
Devon Toews – Sam Malinski

Injured: Joel Kiviranta (OUT), Josh Manson (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Colorado enters with Wedgewood confirmed and still has the stronger high-end control profile. MacKinnon and Makar remain the two biggest pace drivers in the matchup, while Landeskog, Kadri, Necas and Nichushkin give the Avalanche a deep offensive platform. Manson being out removes physical defensive bite, but Colorado still has enough puck movement to dictate long stretches.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Colorado can pressure Minnesota through fast second-touch recovery and immediate puck support.
Transition Signal: MacKinnon and Makar remain elite speed engines who can break structure from any zone.
Blue Line Signal: Makar and Toews give Colorado a major puck-movement edge, even with Manson unavailable.
Goalie Stability Signal: Wedgewood confirmed gives Colorado continuity and confidence.
X-Factor Signal: Colorado can control this game if its top power-play unit forces Minnesota into penalty-kill fatigue.

Minnesota Wild – Projected lineup

Forwards
Kirill Kaprizov – Ryan Hartman – Matt Boldy
Marcus Johansson – Danila Yurov – Mats Zuccarello
Vladimir Tarasenko – Michael McCarron – Yakov Trenin
Marcus Foligno – Nico Sturm – Nick Foligno

Defense
Quinn Hughes – Brock Faber
Jake Middleton – Jared Spurgeon
Zach Bogosian – Jeff Petry

Goalies
Jesper Wallstedt – Expected
Filip Gustavsson

Power Play 1
Ryan Hartman – Kirill Kaprizov – Matt Boldy
Quinn Hughes – Mats Zuccarello

Power Play 2
Danila Yurov – Marcus Johansson – Vladimir Tarasenko
Brock Faber – Jared Spurgeon

Injured: Jonas Brodin (OUT), Joel Eriksson Ek (OUT), Charlie Stramel (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Minnesota still has elite skill through Kaprizov, Boldy, Hughes, Zuccarello and Faber, but the absences of Brodin and Eriksson Ek are serious structural losses. Brodin’s absence affects defensive matchup stability, while Eriksson Ek being out removes a major center, net-front and special-teams piece. Wallstedt expected in goal adds another pressure point against Colorado’s speed.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Minnesota must be aggressive but controlled, because Colorado punishes broken layers quickly.
Transition Signal: Hughes and Kaprizov are the main players who can match Colorado’s pace in open ice.
Blue Line Signal: Without Brodin, the defensive burden on Hughes, Faber and Spurgeon becomes heavier.
Goalie Stability Signal: Wallstedt is expected and will need strong traffic management against elite shooters.
X-Factor Signal: Minnesota needs its power play to compensate for missing Eriksson Ek at five-on-five.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Avalanche edge
Transition Edge: Avalanche edge
Defensive Stability: Avalanche edge
Goaltending Edge: Avalanche slight edge
Game Control Projection: Colorado projects to control more of the dangerous possession through MacKinnon, Makar and confirmed goaltending, while Minnesota needs Kaprizov, Hughes and special teams to create enough pressure to offset key injuries.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie plans and special-teams units based on the latest team information before puck drop.

Are these NHL projected lineups final?
They are useful but not guaranteed. Coaches can still make changes after warmups, injury updates or game-time decisions.

Why are projected goalies important?
Goalies directly influence game control, confidence, defensive structure and matchup risk.

What is the difference between expected and confirmed goalies?
Expected means the goalie is likely to start. Confirmed means the team or a lineup source has confirmed the starter.

Why are power play units included?
Power play units reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and which players are trusted in high-leverage situations.

Why do injuries matter in playoff lineups?
A missing top defenseman, center or goalie can change the tactical balance of a playoff game.

How should readers analyze projected lineups?
Focus on center depth, top defense pairs, goalie status, injuries and whether the team’s normal identity is still intact.

Can special teams decide playoff games?
Yes. One power-play goal or one failed penalty kill can decide a tight playoff game.

Why does IHM add tactical signals?
Because player names alone do not explain how the lineup may function under real game pressure.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a quick tactical summary of offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending edge and projected game control.

When are final NHL lineups usually confirmed?
Most final confirmations come during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after publication?
Late goalie changes, injury updates, scratches and power-play adjustments that shift the tactical balance.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day May 2, 2026

Date: May 1, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens

Faceoff: 01:00 CET

Tampa Bay Lightning – Projected lineup

Goalies
Andrei Vasilevskiy – Expected

Power Play 1
Brayden Point – Brandon Hagel – Jake Guentzel
Nikita Kucherov – Darren Raddysh

Power Play 2
Anthony Cirelli – Gage Goncalves – Corey Perry
Dominic James – Oliver Bjorkstrand

Injured: Pontus Holmberg (OUT), Victor Hedman (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Tampa Bay continues to operate without Hedman, which removes a major stabilizing force from the blue line. However, Point, Kucherov and Guentzel still form one of the most dangerous offensive cores in the playoffs.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Tampa must increase pressure early to control momentum.
Transition Signal: Kucherov remains the primary playmaking engine.
Blue Line Signal: Absence of Hedman reduces puck control under pressure.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vasilevskiy provides elite playoff reliability.
X-Factor Signal: Secondary unit production will decide depth advantage.

Montreal Canadiens – Projected lineup

Goalies
Jakub Dobes – Expected

Power Play 1
Nick Suzuki – Cole Caufield – Juraj Slafkovsky
Ivan Demidov – Lane Hutson

Power Play 2
Kirby Dach – Zachary Bolduc – Alexandre Texier
Mike Matheson – Alex Newhook

Injured: Noah Dobson (OUT), Patrik Laine (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Montreal continues to rely on its young offensive core. Suzuki, Caufield and Demidov drive creativity, while Hutson adds dynamic puck movement from the blue line.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Montreal should pressure Tampa’s depth defenders.
Transition Signal: Suzuki controls pace and entry quality.
Blue Line Signal: Hutson remains key for offensive activation.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dobes must handle high-danger chances consistently.
X-Factor Signal: Young core must stay aggressive and not fall into passive play.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Lightning edge
Transition Edge: Lightning slight edge
Defensive Stability: Even
Goaltending Edge: Lightning edge
Game Control Projection: Tampa projects to control puck more, Montreal remains dangerous in transition.

Matchup: Buffalo Sabres vs Boston Bruins

Faceoff: 01:30 CET

Buffalo Sabres – Projected lineup

Goalies
Alex Lyon – Expected

Power Play 1
Tage Thompson – Jason Zucker – Alex Tuch
Rasmus Dahlin – Josh Norris

Power Play 2
Ryan McLeod – Zach Benson – Jack Quinn
Bowen Byram – Owen Power

Injured: Logan Stanley (DTD), Sam Carrick (OUT), Noah Ostlund (OUT), Justin Danforth (IR), Jiri Kulich (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Buffalo continues to rely on Dahlin driven transition and a highly mobile offensive structure. Thompson and Tuch provide finishing power while Norris adds secondary depth.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Sabres can pressure with speed rather than weight.
Transition Signal: Dahlin and Power remain elite puck movers.
Blue Line Signal: Buffalo has one of the strongest puck-moving groups.
Goalie Stability Signal: Lyon must maintain consistency under pressure.
X-Factor Signal: Sabres must avoid overextending offensively.

Boston Bruins – Projected lineup

Goalies
Jeremy Swayman – Expected

Power Play 1
Pavel Zacha – Elias Lindholm – David Pastrnak
Morgan Geekie – Charlie McAvoy

Power Play 2
Fraser Minten – Marat Khusnutdinov – Alex Steeves
Hampus Lindholm – Casey Mittelstadt

Injured: Viktor Arvidsson (OUT), Dans Locmelis (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Boston keeps its structured approach. Pastrnak remains the primary scoring threat while McAvoy organizes the defensive structure.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Bruins want a heavier, grinding style.
Transition Signal: Less explosive but controlled.
Blue Line Signal: McAvoy is key defensive anchor.
Goalie Stability Signal: Swayman provides calm playoff presence.
X-Factor Signal: Boston must limit Buffalo’s speed.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Sabres slight edge
Transition Edge: Sabres edge
Defensive Stability: Bruins edge
Goaltending Edge: Bruins slight edge
Game Control Projection: Buffalo pushes pace, Boston tries to compress the game.

Matchup: Vegas Golden Knights vs Utah Mammoth

Faceoff: 04:00 CET

Vegas Golden Knights – Projected lineup

Goalies
Carter Hart – Expected

Power Play 1
Jack Eichel – Pavel Dorofeyev – Mark Stone
Mitch Marner – Shea Theodore

Power Play 2
Tomas Hertl – Ivan Barbashev – Brett Howden
Noah Hanifin – Rasmus Andersson

Injured: William Karlsson (IR-LT), Alex Pietrangelo (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Vegas remains one of the most complete playoff teams. Eichel, Marner and Stone drive puck control while Theodore anchors offensive blue line play.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Vegas applies consistent pressure without losing structure.
Transition Signal: Eichel and Marner control tempo.
Blue Line Signal: Strong puck movement from Theodore and Hanifin.
Goalie Stability Signal: Hart provides solid base in goal.
X-Factor Signal: Vegas wants controlled, structured hockey.

Utah Mammoth – Projected lineup

Goalies
Karel Vejmelka – Confirmed

Power Play 1
Logan Cooley – Clayton Keller – Dylan Guenther
Mikhail Sergachev – Nick Schmaltz

Power Play 2
JJ Peterka – Alex Kerfoot – Lawson Crouse
Michael Carcone – MacKenzie Weegar

Injured: Barrett Hayton (DTD), Jack McBain (DTD)

IHM Lineup Note:
Utah continues to rely on speed and skill. Cooley and Keller drive offense, while Sergachev and Weegar anchor the defense.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Utah must pressure aggressively to disrupt Vegas rhythm.
Transition Signal: Cooley and Guenther provide speed.
Blue Line Signal: Sergachev leads puck movement.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vejmelka confirmed is key factor.
X-Factor Signal: Utah needs higher offensive efficiency.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Golden Knights edge
Transition Edge: Slight Golden Knights edge
Defensive Stability: Golden Knights edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Vegas controls structure, Utah must increase pace to compete.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
They are expected player combinations based on team reports before puck drop.

How accurate are they?
Usually accurate but can change before the game.

Why are goalies important?
They determine stability and can decide playoff games.

What does expected vs confirmed mean?
Expected is likely, confirmed is officially announced.

Why are power play units included?
They show offensive structure and scoring priorities.

How do injuries impact games?
They can shift tactical balance significantly.

What should fans analyze first?
Centers, defense pairs and goalie strength.

Why is structure important in playoffs?
Because mistakes are punished immediately.

What is IHM Match Pressure Index?
It summarizes key tactical advantages.

When are final lineups confirmed?
During warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after posting?
Late scratches and goalie changes.

Why does IHM add tactical notes?
To explain how lineups actually function in real games.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day April 30, 2026

Date: April 30, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Minnesota Wild vs Dallas Stars

Faceoff: 01:30 CET

Minnesota Wild – Projected lineup

Goalies
Jesper Wallstedt – Expected

Power Play 1
Joel Eriksson Ek – Kirill Kaprizov – Matt Boldy
Quinn Hughes – Mats Zuccarello

Power Play 2
Ryan Hartman – Marcus Johansson – Yakov Trenin
Vladimir Tarasenko – Brock Faber

Injured: Jonas Brodin (OUT), Charlie Stramel (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Minnesota enters with a dangerous top-unit structure built around Kaprizov, Boldy, Eriksson Ek and Hughes. Zuccarello being involved on the first power play adds another passing layer, while Wallstedt expected in goal makes crease execution one of the key pressure points.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Minnesota should pressure Dallas depth defenders and force rushed exits.
Transition Signal: Hughes and Kaprizov remain the main pace-changing weapons.
Blue Line Signal: Faber and Hughes give Minnesota strong puck-moving intelligence.
Goalie Stability Signal: Wallstedt is expected and must manage playoff pressure cleanly.
X-Factor Signal: Minnesota needs its top power-play unit to create quick danger before Dallas settles into structure.

Dallas Stars – Projected lineup

Goalies
Jake Oettinger – Expected

Power Play 1
Matt Duchene – Jason Robertson – Mikko Rantanen
Wyatt Johnston – Miro Heiskanen

Power Play 2
Mavrik Bourque – Justin Hryckowian – Jamie Benn
Thomas Harley – Esa Lindell

Injured: Nathan Bastian (OUT), Roope Hintz (OUT), Arttu Hyry (OUT), Nils Lundkvist (OUT), Tyler Seguin (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Dallas still has elite top-end offensive firepower despite the injury list. Robertson, Rantanen, Duchene, Johnston and Heiskanen give the Stars a dangerous first power-play unit, but the missing forward depth makes five-on-five control harder.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Dallas must create controlled pressure instead of relying only on rush moments.
Transition Signal: Heiskanen remains the main exit and entry driver.
Blue Line Signal: Harley and Lindell become more important with Lundkvist unavailable.
Goalie Stability Signal: Oettinger gives Dallas the stronger playoff goaltending profile.
X-Factor Signal: Dallas needs power-play production to cover for missing center and winger depth.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Stars slight edge
Transition Edge: Wild slight edge
Defensive Stability: Wild slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Stars edge
Game Control Projection: Dallas has the stronger goalie and elite top-unit threat, while Minnesota has the cleaner transition profile if Hughes and Kaprizov control pace.

Matchup: Anaheim Ducks vs Edmonton Oilers

Faceoff: 04:00 CET

Anaheim Ducks – Projected lineup

Goalies
Lukas Dostal – Confirmed

Power Play 1
Leo Carlsson – Chris Kreider – Troy Terry
Jackson LaCombe – Mikael Granlund

Power Play 2
Alex Killorn – Cutter Gauthier – Beckett Sennecke
Mason McTavish – John Carlson

Injured: Radko Gudas (OUT), Jansen Harkins (OUT), Ross Johnston (OUT), Petr Mrazek (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Anaheim has Dostal confirmed, which gives the Ducks a strong base against Edmonton’s elite attacking pressure. Their power-play setup is balanced, with Carlsson and Terry leading one unit and Gauthier, McTavish and Carlson giving the second group real shooting threat.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Anaheim must pressure Edmonton carefully without opening counterattack lanes.
Transition Signal: Carlsson and Terry remain the key players for clean offensive entries.
Blue Line Signal: Gudas being out removes defensive bite and net-front toughness.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dostal confirmed is a major stabilizing factor.
X-Factor Signal: Anaheim must keep the game structured and force Edmonton to attack from the outside.

Edmonton Oilers – Projected lineup

Goalies
Connor Ingram – Expected

Power Play 1
Leon Draisaitl – Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Zach Hyman
Connor McDavid – Evan Bouchard

Power Play 2
Mattias Ekholm – Vasily Podkolzin – Kasperi Kapanen
Darnell Nurse – Jake Walman

Injured: Adam Henrique (DTD), Max Jones (OUT), Mattias Janmark (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Edmonton still owns the highest offensive ceiling in this matchup. McDavid, Draisaitl, Nugent-Hopkins, Hyman and Bouchard form a power-play unit capable of changing the game quickly, but the Oilers must clean up puck management and avoid feeding Anaheim transition chances.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Edmonton needs stronger retrieval pressure and faster support below the goal line.
Transition Signal: McDavid remains the central pace engine and must attack downhill.
Blue Line Signal: Bouchard and Ekholm are critical to clean exits and offensive-zone resets.
Goalie Stability Signal: Ingram is expected and must hold steady if the game opens up.
X-Factor Signal: Edmonton’s first power-play unit must become decisive and punish Anaheim’s penalties.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Oilers edge
Transition Edge: Oilers edge
Defensive Stability: Ducks slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Ducks slight edge
Game Control Projection: Edmonton projects to push pace through elite skill, while Anaheim can keep the game dangerous if Dostal holds and the Ducks maintain compact defensive layers.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie plans and special-teams units based on the latest team information before puck drop.

Are these NHL projected lineups final?
They are useful but not guaranteed. Coaches can still make changes after warmups, injury updates or game-time decisions.

Why are projected goalies important?
Goalies directly influence game control, confidence, defensive structure and matchup risk.

What is the difference between expected and confirmed goalies?
Expected means the goalie is likely to start. Confirmed means the team or a lineup source has confirmed the starter.

Why are power play units included?
Power play units reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and which players are trusted in high-leverage situations.

Why do injuries matter in playoff lineups?
A missing top defenseman, center or goalie can change the tactical balance of a playoff game.

How should readers analyze projected lineups?
Focus on center depth, top defense pairs, goalie status, injuries and whether the team’s normal identity is still intact.

Can special teams decide playoff games?
Yes. One power-play goal or one failed penalty kill can decide a tight playoff game.

Why does IHM add tactical signals?
Because player names alone do not explain how the lineup may function under real game pressure.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a quick tactical summary of offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending edge and projected game control.

When are final NHL lineups usually confirmed?
Most final confirmations come during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after publication?
Late goalie changes, injury updates, scratches and power-play adjustments that shift the tactical balance.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day April 28, 2026

Date: April 27, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Pittsburgh Penguins vs Philadelphia Flyers

Faceoff: 01:00 CET

Pittsburgh Penguins – Projected lineup

Forwards
Egor Chinakhov – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust
Tommy Novak – Rickard Rakell – Evgeni Malkin
Elmer Soderblom – Ben Kindel – Anthony Mantha
Connor Dewar – Blake Lizotte – Noel Acciari

Defense
Parker Wotherspoon – Erik Karlsson
Samuel Girard – Kris Letang
Ryan Shea – Connor Clifton

Goalies
Arturs Silovs – Confirmed
Stuart Skinner

Power Play 1
Sidney Crosby – Rickard Rakell – Evgeni Malkin
Bryan Rust – Erik Karlsson

Power Play 2
Ben Kindel – Egor Chinakhov – Anthony Mantha
Thomas Novak – Kris Letang

Injured: P. Kettles (OUT), Filip Hallander (IR), Caleb Jones (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Pittsburgh keeps Silovs confirmed in goal, which gives the Penguins a clear crease plan before puck drop. The veteran power-play structure remains the key tactical weapon: Crosby, Malkin, Rakell, Rust, Karlsson and Letang still give Pittsburgh elite puck control, deception and playoff experience when the game slows into special-teams situations.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Pittsburgh must create more connected pressure instead of relying only on veteran puck skill.
Transition Signal: Karlsson and Letang remain the main breakout engines and must move the puck before Philadelphia’s speed closes lanes.
Blue Line Signal: The Penguins have offensive quality on the back end, but defensive spacing must stay compact against Flyers rush pressure.
Goalie Stability Signal: Silovs confirmed creates continuity and gives Pittsburgh a defined response structure.
X-Factor Signal: Crosby and Malkin must turn offensive-zone control into real slot pressure, not just perimeter possession.

Philadelphia Flyers – Projected lineup

Forwards
Tyson Foerster – Trevor Zegras – Owen Tippett
Travis Konecny – Christian Dvorak – Porter Martone
Denver Barkey – Noah Cates – Matvei Michkov
Luke Glendening – Sean Couturier – Garnet Hathaway

Defense
Travis Sanheim – Rasmus Ristolainen
Cam York – Jamie Drysdale
Nick Seeler – Alex Bump

Goalies
Dan Vladar – Expected
Samuel Ersson

Power Play 1
Christian Dvorak – Travis Konecny – Owen Tippett
Alex Bump – Rasmus Ristolainen

Power Play 2
Trevor Zegras – Tyson Foerster – Porter Martone
Noah Cates – Jamie Drysdale

Injured: Emil Andrae (DTD), Nikita Grebenkin (OUT), Ty Murchison (OUT), Rodrigo Abols (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Philadelphia continues to carry a strong speed-and-pressure identity, with Vladar expected in goal and a power-play look that spreads shooting and playmaking across two units. The Andrae day-to-day note matters because the Flyers lose some blue-line flexibility if he cannot play, but their forward structure remains dangerous through Konecny, Tippett, Zegras, Foerster, Martone and Michkov.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Philadelphia should keep attacking Pittsburgh’s defense with speed, pressure and quick weak-side support.
Transition Signal: Zegras, Tippett and Michkov remain the main open-ice acceleration threats.
Blue Line Signal: Drysdale and Ristolainen must manage puck movement carefully, especially if Andrae is unavailable.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vladar expected gives the Flyers a stable but still pressure-tested crease plan.
X-Factor Signal: Philadelphia can keep tilting the series if its speed forces Pittsburgh’s veteran core into defensive recovery shifts.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Even
Transition Edge: Flyers slight edge
Defensive Stability: Penguins slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Philadelphia projects to create more pace and pressure through speed, while Pittsburgh’s best route is slowing the game into veteran puck control, power-play execution and Silovs-driven stability.

Matchup: Utah Mammoth vs Vegas Golden Knights

Faceoff: 03:30 CET

Utah Mammoth – Projected lineup

Forwards
Clayton Keller – Logan Cooley – Dylan Guenther
Kailer Yamamoto – Nick Schmaltz – Lawson Crouse
JJ Peterka – Alexander Kerfoot – Michael Carcone
Liam O’Brien – Kevin Stenlund – Brandon Tanev

Defense
Mikhail Sergachev – MacKenzie Weegar
Nate Schmidt – John Marino
Ian Cole – Sean Durzi

Goalies
Karel Vejmelka – Expected
Vitek Vanecek

Power Play 1
Logan Cooley – Clayton Keller – Dylan Guenther
Mikhail Sergachev – Nick Schmaltz

Power Play 2
Alexander Kerfoot – JJ Peterka – Lawson Crouse
Michael Carcone – MacKenzie Weegar

Injured: Barrett Hayton (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Utah still has enough pace and skill to challenge Vegas, especially through Cooley, Keller, Guenther, Sergachev and Weegar. The Mammoth need a cleaner special-teams game and more direct pressure from their top unit because Vegas will not give them many easy second chances in a structured playoff environment.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Utah must pressure earlier and force Vegas defensemen into quicker puck decisions.
Transition Signal: Cooley and Keller remain the main speed triggers and must attack before Vegas sets its layers.
Blue Line Signal: Sergachev and Weegar give Utah enough puck-moving quality to support controlled entries and power-play rotation.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vejmelka expected gives Utah a workable crease base, but the workload must stay manageable.
X-Factor Signal: Utah needs to turn this into a pace-driven game instead of letting Vegas dominate wall battles and half-ice structure.

Vegas Golden Knights – Projected lineup

Forwards
Ivan Barbashev – Jack Eichel – Mark Stone
Brett Howden – Mitch Marner – Pavel Dorofeyev
Reilly Smith – Tomas Hertl – Keegan Kolesar
Cole Smith – Nic Dowd – Colton Sissons

Defense
Brayden McNabb – Shea Theodore
Noah Hanifin – Rasmus Andersson
Jeremy Lauzon – Kaedan Korczak

Goalies
Carter Hart – Confirmed
Adin Hill

Power Play 1
Jack Eichel – Pavel Dorofeyev – Mark Stone
Ivan Barbashev – Shea Theodore

Power Play 2
Tomas Hertl – Brett Howden – Mitch Marner
Rasmus Andersson – Noah Hanifin

Injured: William Karlsson (IR-LT), Alex Pietrangelo (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Vegas has Carter Hart confirmed and still owns the more mature playoff control profile. Even without Karlsson and Pietrangelo, the Golden Knights have elite game-management pieces across both power-play units, with Eichel, Stone, Marner, Hertl, Theodore, Hanifin and Andersson giving them multiple ways to sustain pressure.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Vegas can pressure Utah with weight, wall control and disciplined second-man support.
Transition Signal: Eichel and Marner remain elite controlled-entry options who can slow the game and create cleaner looks.
Blue Line Signal: Theodore, Andersson and Hanifin give Vegas strong puck movement despite Pietrangelo being unavailable.
Goalie Stability Signal: Hart confirmed gives Vegas a clear crease edge in preparation and game-state control.
X-Factor Signal: Vegas can win this matchup by forcing Utah into repeated defensive-zone shifts and limiting rush chances.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Golden Knights edge
Transition Edge: Golden Knights slight edge
Defensive Stability: Golden Knights edge
Goaltending Edge: Golden Knights slight edge
Game Control Projection: Vegas projects to control the more repeatable playoff details through structure, power-play depth and confirmed goaltending, while Utah needs speed, cleaner exits and a strong Vejmelka performance to destabilize the game.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie plans and special-teams units based on the latest team information before puck drop.

Are these NHL projected lineups final?
They are highly useful but not guaranteed. Coaches can still make changes after warmups, injury updates or game-time decisions.

Why are projected goalies important?
Goalies directly influence game control, confidence, defensive structure and matchup risk.

What is the difference between expected and confirmed goalies?
Expected means the goalie is likely to start. Confirmed means the team or a reliable lineup source has confirmed the starter.

Why are power play units included?
Power play units reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and which players are trusted in high-leverage situations.

Why do injuries matter so much in playoff lineups?
A missing top defenseman, center or goalie can change the entire tactical balance of a playoff game.

How should readers analyze projected lineups?
Focus on center depth, top-four defense quality, goalie status, injuries and whether the team’s normal identity is still intact.

Can special teams decide playoff games?
Yes. In tight playoff games, one power-play goal or one failed penalty kill can decide the outcome.

Why does IHM add tactical signals?
Because player names alone do not explain how the lineup may function under real game pressure.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a quick tactical summary of offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending edge and projected game control.

When are final NHL lineups usually confirmed?
Most final confirmations come during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after publication?
Late goalie changes, injury updates, scratches and any power-play adjustments that shift the tactical balance.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day April 26, 2026

Date: April 26, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Montreal Canadiens vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Faceoff: 01:00 CET

Montreal Canadiens – Projected lineup

Forwards
Cole Caufield – Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkovsky
Alexandre Texier – Alex Newhook – Ivan Demidov
Zachary Bolduc – Oliver Kapanen – Kirby Dach
Jake Evans – Phillip Danault – Josh Anderson

Defense
Mike Matheson – Alexandre Carrier
Kaiden Guhle – Lane Hutson
Jayden Struble – Arber Xhekaj

Goalies
Jakub Dobes – Expected
Jacob Fowler

Power Play 1
Nick Suzuki – Cole Caufield – Ivan Demidov
Juraj Slafkovsky – Lane Hutson

Power Play 2
Kirby Dach – Alex Newhook – Zachary Bolduc
Mike Matheson – Alexandre Texier

Injured: Noah Dobson (OUT), Patrik Laine (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Montreal continues to trust its young offensive core, but the power play adjustment is important. Demidov moving into a central PP1 role gives the Canadiens more creativity, deception and shot-pass threat around Suzuki and Caufield. Hutson remains the key blue-line activator, while Dobson’s absence still lowers the defensive control ceiling.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Montreal should keep attacking Tampa’s depth defense and force rushed decisions below the goal line.
Transition Signal: Suzuki remains the main controlled-entry driver, with Demidov adding a higher-skill second layer.
Blue Line Signal: Hutson gives Montreal elite creativity, but the Canadiens must protect against counterattacks behind him.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dobes is expected and must stay calm against Tampa’s elite finishing pressure.
X-Factor Signal: Montreal’s PP1 can change the game if Demidov and Hutson create east-west movement before Tampa’s penalty kill sets its box.

Tampa Bay Lightning – Projected lineup

Forwards
Gage Goncalves – Brayden Point – Nikita Kucherov
Brandon Hagel – Anthony Cirelli – Jake Guentzel
Zemgus Girgensons – Yanni Gourde – Nick Paul
Corey Perry – Dominic James – Scott Sabourin

Defense
J.J. Moser – Darren Raddysh
Ryan McDonagh – Erik Cernak
Declan Carlile – Emil Lilleberg

Goalies
Andrei Vasilevskiy – Expected
Jonas Johansson

Power Play 1
Brayden Point – Brandon Hagel – Jake Guentzel
Nikita Kucherov – Darren Raddysh

Power Play 2
Dominic James – Gage Goncalves – Corey Perry
J.J. Moser – Nick Paul

Injured: Charle-Edouard D’Astous (OUT), Pontus Holmberg (OUT), Victor Hedman (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Tampa Bay still has the more proven playoff core, but the absence of Hedman remains a major structural issue. Kucherov is now even more important as the primary offensive brain, while Raddysh must carry more power-play and breakout responsibility. Vasilevskiy expected in goal gives the Lightning the strongest stabilizing element in the matchup.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Tampa must pressure Montreal’s young puck movers early and force turnovers before the Canadiens can build speed.
Transition Signal: Point and Kucherov remain the most dangerous pace manipulators for the Lightning.
Blue Line Signal: Without Hedman, Tampa’s blue-line structure is more functional than dominant.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vasilevskiy gives Tampa a clear playoff goaltending advantage.
X-Factor Signal: Tampa’s PP1 must punish Montreal’s mistakes because five-on-five control is no longer automatic in this series.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Lightning slight edge
Transition Edge: Even
Defensive Stability: Even
Goaltending Edge: Lightning edge
Game Control Projection: Tampa projects to own the calmer playoff structure through Vasilevskiy and veteran execution, but Montreal’s young PP1 and transition speed can make this game dangerous if the Lightning lose puck discipline.

Matchup: Anaheim Ducks vs Edmonton Oilers

Faceoff: 03:30 CET

Anaheim Ducks – Projected lineup

Forwards
Chris Kreider – Leo Carlsson – Troy Terry
Alex Killorn – Mikael Granlund – Beckett Sennecke
Mason McTavish – Ryan Poehling – Cutter Gauthier
Jeffrey Viel – Tim Washe – Ian Moore

Defense
Jackson LaCombe – Jacob Trouba
Pavel Mintyukov – John Carlson
Tyson Hinds – Drew Helleson

Goalies
Lukas Dostal – Expected
Ville Husso

Power Play 1
Leo Carlsson – Troy Terry – Cutter Gauthier
Jackson LaCombe – Mason McTavish

Power Play 2
Mikael Granlund – Alex Killorn – Beckett Sennecke
Chris Kreider – Jacob Trouba

Injured: Radko Gudas (DTD), Ross Johnston (DTD), Jansen Harkins (OUT), Petr Mrazek (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Anaheim’s structure remains dangerous because the Ducks are not trying to out-skill Edmonton shift for shift. They are trying to slow the Oilers, protect the middle, and attack through balanced power-play looks. Dostal expected in goal keeps Anaheim’s upset path alive, while Gudas being day to day affects defensive edge and net-front bite.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Anaheim must pressure with discipline and avoid giving McDavid clean counterattack lanes.
Transition Signal: Carlsson, Terry and Gauthier are the main speed and skill connectors.
Blue Line Signal: LaCombe and Carlson remain important for puck movement, while Gudas’ status affects defensive heaviness.
Goalie Stability Signal: Dostal expected gives Anaheim a credible playoff crease profile.
X-Factor Signal: Anaheim must keep the game structured and force Edmonton’s stars into low-percentage perimeter possessions.

Edmonton Oilers – Projected lineup

Forwards
Matthew Savoie – Connor McDavid – Zach Hyman
Vasily Podkolzin – Leon Draisaitl – Kasperi Kapanen
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Jason Dickinson – Jack Roslovic
Colton Dach – Curtis Lazar – Trent Frederic

Defense
Mattias Ekholm – Evan Bouchard
Darnell Nurse – Connor Murphy
Jake Walman – Ty Emberson

Goalies
Tristan Jarry – Expected
Connor Ingram

Power Play 1
Leon Draisaitl – Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Zach Hyman
Connor McDavid – Evan Bouchard

Power Play 2
Matt Savoie – Vasily Podkolzin – Jack Roslovic
Mattias Ekholm – Jake Walman

Injured: Jason Dickinson (DTD), Adam Henrique (OUT), Max Jones (OUT), Mattias Janmark (IR-LT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Edmonton still has the highest offensive ceiling in this matchup, but the goalie switch to Jarry expected adds a fresh tactical layer. The Oilers’ power play remains loaded with McDavid, Draisaitl, Hyman, Nugent-Hopkins and Bouchard, but execution must improve. If the puck movement stays slow or Anaheim blocks the middle, Edmonton’s elite talent can still be forced into frustration.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Edmonton must retrieve more pucks below the goal line instead of depending only on rush creation.
Transition Signal: McDavid remains the central pace engine, and the Oilers need him attacking downhill with speed.
Blue Line Signal: Bouchard and Ekholm are critical for clean exits, PP control and controlled offensive-zone resets.
Goalie Stability Signal: Jarry expected creates a new crease variable, but also gives Edmonton a chance to reset emotionally.
X-Factor Signal: Edmonton’s PP1 must become decisive, because special teams are the clearest path to breaking Anaheim’s structure.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Oilers edge
Transition Edge: Oilers clear edge
Defensive Stability: Ducks slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Ducks slight edge
Game Control Projection: Edmonton projects to own the higher ceiling through McDavid, Draisaitl and the power play, but Anaheim can keep controlling the emotional rhythm if Dostal holds and the Ducks continue closing central ice.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie plans and special-teams units based on the latest team information before puck drop.

Are these NHL projected lineups final?
They are highly useful but not guaranteed. Coaches can still make changes after warmups, injury updates or game-time decisions.

Why are projected goalies important?
Goalies directly influence game control, confidence, defensive structure and matchup risk.

What is the difference between expected and confirmed goalies?
Expected means the goalie is likely to start. Confirmed means the team or a reliable lineup source has confirmed the starter.

Why are power play units included?
Power play units reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and which players are trusted in high-leverage situations.

Why do injuries matter so much in playoff lineups?
A missing top defenseman, center or goalie can change the entire tactical balance of a playoff game.

How should readers analyze projected lineups?
Focus on center depth, top-four defense quality, goalie status, injuries and whether the team’s normal identity is still intact.

Can special teams decide playoff games?
Yes. In tight playoff games, one power-play goal or one failed penalty kill can decide the outcome.

Why does IHM add tactical signals?
Because player names alone do not explain how the lineup may function under real game pressure.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a quick tactical summary of offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending edge and projected game control.

When are final NHL lineups usually confirmed?
Most final confirmations come during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after publication?
Late goalie changes, injury updates, scratches and any power-play adjustments that shift the tactical balance.

NHL Projected Lineups – Game Day April 25, 2026

Date: April 25, 2026
By IceHockeyMan Newsroom

Final update: All projected lineups for today have been added.

Matchup: Boston Bruins vs Buffalo Sabres

Faceoff: 20:00 CET

Boston Bruins – Projected lineup

Forwards
Morgan Geekie – Elias Lindholm – David Pastrnak
Casey Mittelstadt – Pavel Zacha – Viktor Arvidsson
James Hagens – Fraser Minten – Lukas Reichel
Tanner Jeannot – Sean Kuraly – Mark Kastelic

Defense
Jonathan Aspirot – Charlie McAvoy
Hampus Lindholm – Mason Lohrei
Nikita Zadorov – Andrew Peeke

Goalies
Jeremy Swayman – Expected
Joonas Korpisalo

Power Play 1
Pavel Zacha – Morgan Geekie – David Pastrnak
Viktor Arvidsson – Charlie McAvoy

Power Play 2
Elias Lindholm – Casey Mittelstadt – Lukas Reichel
Hampus Lindholm – Fraser Minten

Injured: D. Locmelis (OUT)

IHM Lineup Note:
Boston enters this game needing a response, and the Bruins still have the tools to turn the series into a heavier, more structured battle. Swayman expected in goal gives them stability, while Pastrnak, McAvoy, Lindholm and Zacha remain the key pieces if Boston wants to slow Buffalo’s speed and win the middle of the ice.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Boston must increase wall pressure and force Buffalo’s puck movers into slower exits.
Transition Signal: Pastrnak remains the most dangerous release option, but Boston needs more support through the neutral zone.
Blue Line Signal: McAvoy is the main defensive organizer and must control the matchup against Thompson and Tuch.
Goalie Stability Signal: Swayman expected gives Boston a strong playoff base.
X-Factor Signal: Boston’s power play must create more direct shot traffic instead of letting Buffalo defend comfortably.

Buffalo Sabres – Projected lineup

Forwards
Peyton Krebs – Tage Thompson – Alex Tuch
Jason Zucker – Ryan McLeod – Jack Quinn
Zach Benson – Josh Norris – Josh Doan
Jordan Greenway – Josh Dunne – Beck Malenstyn

Defense
Rasmus Dahlin – Mattias Samuelsson
Bowen Byram – Owen Power
Logan Stanley – Connor Timmins

Goalies
Alex Lyon – Expected
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

Power Play 1
Tage Thompson – Jason Zucker – Alex Tuch
Rasmus Dahlin – Noah Ostlund

Power Play 2
Ryan McLeod – Zach Benson – Josh Doan
Bowen Byram – Jack Quinn

Injured: Josh Norris (DTD), Sam Carrick (OUT), Justin Danforth (IR), Jiri Kulich (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Buffalo comes in with momentum and a clear identity: speed from the back end, quick offensive-zone recovery, and confident goaltending from Lyon if he gets the crease again. The Norris day-to-day note matters, but the Sabres still have enough pace and power-play variety to keep Boston under pressure.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Buffalo can pressure Boston through speed, second-man support and quick puck recovery.
Transition Signal: Dahlin, Power and Byram give Buffalo a strong breakout and controlled-entry platform.
Blue Line Signal: Buffalo’s defense remains more dynamic in puck movement than Boston’s group.
Goalie Stability Signal: Lyon expected gives Buffalo confidence after his strong Game 3 performance.
X-Factor Signal: Thompson and Tuch must keep forcing Boston’s defense to defend through screens and inside pressure.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Sabres slight edge
Transition Edge: Sabres edge
Defensive Stability: Bruins slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Even to Bruins slight edge
Game Control Projection: Buffalo projects to create more speed-driven pressure, while Boston needs to slow the game into a structured, physical playoff battle to regain control.

Matchup: Los Angeles Kings vs Colorado Avalanche

Faceoff: 22:30 CET

Los Angeles Kings – Projected lineup

Forwards
Artemi Panarin – Anze Kopitar – Adrian Kempe
Trevor Moore – Quinton Byfield – Alex Laferriere
Joel Armia – Scott Laughton – Andrei Kuzmenko
Mathieu Joseph – Samuel Helenius – Jeff Malott

Defense
Mikey Anderson – Drew Doughty
Joel Edmundson – Brandt Clarke
Brian Dumoulin – Cody Ceci

Goalies
Anton Forsberg – Expected
Darcy Kuemper

Power Play 1
Anze Kopitar – Artemi Panarin – Alex Laferriere
Adrian Kempe – Brandt Clarke

Power Play 2
Quinton Byfield – Trevor Moore – Andrei Kuzmenko
Scott Laughton – Drew Doughty

Injured: Kevin Fiala (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Los Angeles is facing elimination-level pressure and still needs a major offensive correction. The Kings have enough names to respond, but their problem in this series has been converting possession into dangerous interior chances. Forsberg expected gives clarity in goal, but the real issue is whether Los Angeles can create more than isolated attacks.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Kings must force longer Colorado retrievals and stop giving the Avalanche clean first passes.
Transition Signal: Panarin, Kempe and Byfield are the main players who can change pace quickly.
Blue Line Signal: Doughty and Clarke are essential to creating cleaner power-play movement and offensive-zone support.
Goalie Stability Signal: Forsberg expected means Los Angeles has a defined crease plan, but he may face high-quality looks.
X-Factor Signal: Without Fiala, the Kings need more finishing from Kempe, Panarin and the second unit.

Colorado Avalanche – Projected lineup

Forwards
Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Parker Kelly – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin
Gabriel Landeskog – Nazem Kadri – Nicolas Roy
Joel Kiviranta – Jack Drury – Logan O’Connor

Defense
Brett Kulak – Cale Makar
Devon Toews – Sam Malinski
Josh Manson – Brent Burns

Goalies
Scott Wedgewood – Expected
Mackenzie Blackwood

Power Play 1
Nathan MacKinnon – Gabriel Landeskog – Martin Necas
Nazem Kadri – Cale Makar

Power Play 2
Valeri Nichushkin – Artturi Lehkonen – Nicolas Roy
Devon Toews – Sam Malinski

Injured: Josh Manson (DTD)

IHM Lineup Note:
Colorado enters with a sweep opportunity and still looks like the cleaner, faster and more layered team. MacKinnon and Makar remain the core engines, while Wedgewood expected in goal gives the Avalanche continuity. The only notable question is Manson’s day-to-day status, but Colorado’s overall control profile remains strong.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Colorado can pressure Los Angeles through immediate second-touch recovery and speed below the dots.
Transition Signal: MacKinnon and Makar continue to dominate the pace and entry battle.
Blue Line Signal: Makar, Toews and Malinski give Colorado superior puck movement and offensive-zone extension.
Goalie Stability Signal: Wedgewood expected gives Colorado calm and continuity after strong previous starts.
X-Factor Signal: Colorado can end the series if it keeps forcing the Kings into rush defense and low-percentage clears.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Avalanche edge
Transition Edge: Avalanche clear edge
Defensive Stability: Avalanche slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Colorado projects to control the more dangerous phases through speed, puck movement and blue-line activation, while Los Angeles needs its best offensive performance of the series to avoid elimination pressure becoming final.

Matchup: Philadelphia Flyers vs Pittsburgh Penguins

Faceoff: 02:00 CET

Philadelphia Flyers – Projected lineup

Forwards
Tyson Foerster – Trevor Zegras – Owen Tippett
Travis Konecny – Christian Dvorak – Porter Martone
Denver Barkey – Noah Cates – Matvei Michkov
Luke Glendening – Sean Couturier – Garnet Hathaway

Defense
Travis Sanheim – Rasmus Ristolainen
Cam York – Jamie Drysdale
Nick Seeler – Oliver Bonk

Goalies
Dan Vladar – Confirmed
Samuel Ersson

Power Play 1
Trevor Zegras – Tyson Foerster – Porter Martone
Noah Cates – Jamie Drysdale

Power Play 2
Christian Dvorak – Travis Konecny – Owen Tippett
Matvei Michkov – Rasmus Ristolainen

Injured: Emil Andrae (OUT), Nikita Grebenkin (OUT), Ty Murchison (OUT), Rodrigo Abols (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Philadelphia has Vladar confirmed and continues to carry a dangerous blend of speed, youth and pressure. With Andrae out, the third pair loses some puck movement, but the Flyers still have strong attacking pieces across both power-play groups. Zegras, Konecny, Tippett, Martone and Michkov remain the main offensive pressure points.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Philadelphia should continue using speed and aggressive support to force Pittsburgh into rushed exits.
Transition Signal: Zegras and Michkov are the creativity triggers, while Tippett gives direct attacking speed.
Blue Line Signal: Drysdale becomes more important on power-play movement with Andrae out.
Goalie Stability Signal: Vladar confirmed gives Philadelphia a clear crease structure before puck drop.
X-Factor Signal: The Flyers can keep controlling the series if they turn their speed into repeat offensive-zone pressure.

Pittsburgh Penguins – Projected lineup

Forwards
Egor Chinakhov – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust
Tommy Novak – Rickard Rakell – Evgeni Malkin
Elmer Soderblom – Ben Kindel – Anthony Mantha
Connor Dewar – Blake Lizotte – Noel Acciari

Defense
Parker Wotherspoon – Erik Karlsson
Samuel Girard – Kris Letang
Ryan Shea – Connor Clifton

Goalies
Arturs Silovs – Confirmed
Stuart Skinner

Power Play 1
Sidney Crosby – Rickard Rakell – Evgeni Malkin
Bryan Rust – Erik Karlsson

Power Play 2
Ben Kindel – Anthony Mantha – Egor Chinakhov
Thomas Novak – Kris Letang

Injured: P. Kettles (OUT), Filip Hallander (IR), Caleb Jones (IR)

IHM Lineup Note:
Pittsburgh makes a significant crease adjustment with Silovs confirmed. The Penguins still have elite veteran power-play brains through Crosby, Malkin, Karlsson, Letang and Rust, but the question is whether they can generate enough controlled offense at five-on-five against Philadelphia’s pace.

IHM Tactical Signals:
Forecheck Signal: Pittsburgh needs a more connected first layer to slow Philadelphia’s young transition game.
Transition Signal: Karlsson and Letang remain the main breakout and power-play distribution engines.
Blue Line Signal: Pittsburgh’s defense can move the puck, but it must avoid getting stretched by Flyers speed.
Goalie Stability Signal: Silovs confirmed adds a new variable and could reset the matchup energy.
X-Factor Signal: Crosby and Malkin must turn power-play time into real scoreboard pressure.

IHM Match Pressure Index:
Offensive Pressure: Even
Transition Edge: Flyers slight edge
Defensive Stability: Penguins slight edge
Goaltending Edge: Even
Game Control Projection: Philadelphia projects to keep stressing Pittsburgh through speed and pressure, while the Penguins need Silovs, special teams and veteran puck control to pull the game back into their preferred rhythm.

Q&A: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

What are NHL projected lineups?
Projected lineups are expected player combinations, goalie plans and special-teams units based on the latest team information before puck drop.

Are these NHL projected lineups final?
They are highly useful but not guaranteed. Coaches can still make changes after warmups, injury updates or game-time decisions.

Why are projected goalies important?
Goalies directly influence game control, confidence, defensive structure and matchup risk.

What is the difference between expected and confirmed goalies?
Expected means the goalie is likely to start. Confirmed means the team or a reliable lineup source has confirmed the starter.

Why are power play units included?
Power play units reveal offensive hierarchy, puck-touch priority and which players are trusted in high-leverage situations.

Why do injuries matter so much in playoff lineups?
A missing top defenseman, center or goalie can change the entire tactical balance of a playoff game.

How should readers analyze projected lineups?
Focus on center depth, top-four defense quality, goalie status, injuries and whether the team’s normal identity is still intact.

Can special teams decide playoff games?
Yes. In tight playoff games, one power-play goal or one failed penalty kill can decide the outcome.

Why does IHM add tactical signals?
Because player names alone do not explain how the lineup may function under real game pressure.

What is the IHM Match Pressure Index?
It is a quick tactical summary of offensive pressure, transition edge, defensive stability, goaltending edge and projected game control.

When are final NHL lineups usually confirmed?
Most final confirmations come during warmups or shortly before puck drop.

What should readers watch after publication?
Late goalie changes, injury updates, scratches and any power-play adjustments that shift the tactical balance.