The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are underway with the second round featuring intense matchups across the Eastern and Western Conferences. The Colorado Avalanche were eliminated in the first round by the Dallas Stars in a dramatic Game 7, where Mikko Rantanen scored a playoff-record hat trick in the third period, contributing to the Stars' 4-2 series victory. Rantanen, who was traded to the Hurricanes and then flipped to the Stars, led the playoffs with 12 goals and 12 points, showcasing his crucial role in the series. The Avalanche's struggles included ineffective special teams, with a power play success rate of just 13.6%, and missed opportunities in key moments, particularly in overtime and third-period leads. Goaltending also played a pivotal role, with Stars' Jake Oettinger outperforming Avalanche's Mackenzie Blackwood. The second round schedule has been announced, with notable matchups such as the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals, and Edmonton Oilers vs. Vegas Golden Knights. The series are set to be highly competitive, with games scheduled from May 5 to May 19, and potential Game 7s in several series. The playoffs are drawing significant attention, with broadcasting on ESPN, CBC, and Sportsnet, and ongoing coverage of game results, series previews, and player performances. The NHL continues to showcase thrilling postseason hockey, with the Oilers aiming to advance further and the Panthers looking to defend their title. The upcoming games and series outcomes will determine the path to the Stanley Cup Final, expected to be a dramatic conclusion to the 2025 NHL season.