Eastern Playoff Bubble: Senators vs Blue Jackets | April 8, 2026
Published 4/8/2026
Quick Take
- The Senators (OTT) currently hold the bubble lead with 92 points.
- The Senators (OTT) have 92 points, while the Blue Jackets (CBJ) have 90 points, a gap of 2 points.
- A tiebreaker based on regulation wins could be crucial, with the Senators (OTT) holding an advantage in this category.
The playoff bubble in the Eastern Conference is heating up, with the Senators (OTT) and Blue Jackets (CBJ) engaged in a fierce battle for the last wild card spot. Senators (OTT) players like Brady Tkachuk are stepping up their game, while the Blue Jackets (CBJ) are relying on the goaltending of Elvis Merzlikins. The pressure is on, with only a few games left to play.
The current cutoff line has the Bruins (BOS) and Senators (OTT) in the playoffs, with 96 and 92 points respectively, while the Blue Jackets (CBJ), Red Wings (DET), and Islanders (NYI) are on the outside looking in, with 90, 89, and 89 points. The Capitals (WSH) are further back with 87 points.
In the event of a tie, the Senators (OTT) have an advantage in regulation wins, with 35 compared to the Blue Jackets (CBJ) 27. This could be a crucial factor in determining the final playoff spot, as teams like the Red Wings (DET) and Islanders (NYI) also have a high number of regulation wins.
Looking ahead to the schedule, the Blue Jackets (CBJ) have a tough road ahead, with games against top teams like the Bruins (BOS) and Maple Leafs. Meanwhile, the Senators (OTT) are playing well, with wins in their last two games, and will look to keep their momentum going in their final few games.
