Eastern Playoff Bubble: Senators vs Red Wings | April 10, 2026
Published 4/10/2026

Quick Take
- The Senators (OTT) currently hold the last playoff spot with 94 points.
- The Senators (OTT) have 94 points, while the Red Wings (DET) have 91 points, a gap of 3 points.
- A tiebreaker based on regulation wins could become crucial, with the Senators (OTT) holding an advantage in this category.
The Eastern Conference playoff bubble is heating up, with teams like the Senators (OTT) and Red Wings (DET) fighting for a spot. Senators (OTT) players, including their star forwards, are stepping up to secure a playoff berth. The pressure is on for these teams to perform in their remaining games.
The current playoff cutoff line has the Bruins (BOS) and Senators (OTT) in, with 96 and 94 points respectively, while the Red Wings (DET) and Islanders (NYI) are on the outside looking in with 91 points each. The Blue Jackets (CBJ) and Capitals (WSH) are further back with 90 and 89 points. The Senators (OTT) are holding on to the last spot by just a few points.
In the event of a tie in points, the Senators (OTT) have an advantage in regulation wins, with 36, compared to the Red Wings (DET) and Islanders (NYI) who have 30 and 29 respectively. This could be a crucial tiebreaker in determining the final playoff spot. The Capitals (WSH) have 34 regulation wins, but are still a few points behind.
As the season nears its end, the Red Wings (DET) face a tough schedule, while the Senators (OTT) have a more favorable road ahead. The Senators (OTT) are also playing well, having won several games in a row, which could give them the momentum they need to hold on to their playoff spot. The Islanders (NYI) and Blue Jackets (CBJ) are still in the hunt, but need to string together some wins to catch up.
