Eastern Playoff Bubble: Blue Jackets vs Senators | March 31, 2026
Published 3/31/2026
Quick Take
- The Blue Jackets (CBJ) currently hold the bubble lead as the last team in the playoffs.
- The Blue Jackets (CBJ) have 88 points, while the Senators (OTT) have 86 points, a gap of 2 points between the last team in and the first team out.
- If teams finish tied in points, the Senators (OTT) have an advantage with more regulation wins, which could become a crucial tiebreaker.
The playoff bubble in the Eastern Conference is heating up, with the Blue Jackets (CBJ) clinging to the last spot and the Senators (OTT), Red Wings (DET), and Flyers (PHI) all within striking distance. The Capitals (WSH) are still in the mix but face a tougher road ahead. As the season enters its final stretch, every point counts.
The current cutoff line has the Bruins (BOS) at 92 points, safely in, and the Blue Jackets (CBJ) at 88 points, holding the last wild card spot, while the Senators (OTT), Red Wings (DET), and Flyers (PHI) are all on the outside looking in with 86 points. The Capitals (WSH) are further back at 83 points.
If teams finish tied in points, regulation wins will become the tiebreaker, and the Senators (OTT) have an advantage with 32 regulation wins, ahead of the Blue Jackets (CBJ) and their 27 regulation wins. This could be a crucial factor in determining the final playoff spot.
Looking ahead to the schedule, the Blue Jackets (CBJ) face a tough road with several games against playoff contenders, while the Senators (OTT) and Red Wings (DET) have more favorable schedules. The Flyers (PHI) are playing well, having won their last few games, and could make a push for the playoffs if they can keep up their momentum.
