The 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs have already delivered thrilling moments, with unexpected player returns and teams battling through injuries. As the series progresses, two teams currently hold commanding 2-0 leads heading into crucial Game 3 matchups. Historically, teams leading 2-0 in best-of-seven series triumph 86% of the time, according to ESPN Research. Will history repeat itself for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg Jets? Or will the Ottawa Senators and St. Louis Blues seize victories at home? Additionally, can the Florida Panthers secure another win against the Tampa Bay Lightning? Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild face a pivotal Game 3 showdown, while fans eagerly anticipate standout performances from key players.
Thursday's slate features several intriguing matchups. In Florida versus Tampa Bay, the Panthers, now favored at -210 by ESPN BET after their Game 1 victory, look to extend their lead. Matthew Tkachuk’s return after a prolonged absence has injected new energy into the team, scoring twice in Game 1. On the Lightning side, goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy holds the record for playoff wins among goalies born outside North America, with 66 victories compared to Sergei Bobrovsky’s 45.
In Ontario, the Toronto Maple Leafs aim to maintain their 2-0 lead over the Ottawa Senators. The last time Toronto held such an advantage was in 2002 against the New York Islanders. Standout performers include John Tavares, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Auston Matthews, who collectively dominate the stats sheet. However, Ottawa's hopes rest heavily on Linus Ullmark reversing his poor form; he allowed nine goals in the first two games but excelled during the regular season against Toronto.
Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild are tied 1-1 heading into their Game 3 clash. History suggests that winning this game significantly boosts chances of advancing, as winners of Game 3 in tied series triumph 66% of the time. For the Wild, Kirill Kaprizov continues to shine, tying Marian Gaborik for second-most playoff goals in franchise history. Conversely, Adin Hill seeks redemption for the Knights, having posted an .833 save percentage so far, down from his stellar .931 mark last postseason.
In St. Louis, the Blues trail 2-0 to the Winnipeg Jets, despite being Presidents’ Trophy winners. Kyle Connor has been instrumental, scoring both game-winning goals thus far. The Blues must rely on Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou regaining their regular-season form after being held scoreless in Game 2. Rookie Jimmy Snuggerud also adds excitement to the mix, becoming only the second rookie scorer this postseason.
Beyond these previews, Wednesday night saw memorable moments, including Gabriel Landeskog's triumphant return for the Colorado Avalanche and Adrian Kempe's four-point performance aiding the Los Angeles Kings' dominant win over Edmonton Oilers. Logan Thompson starred between the pipes for Washington Capitals, securing a crucial 2-0 series lead against Montreal Canadiens.
As the playoff drama unfolds, fans can expect more exhilarating hockey action ahead. Each game carries significant implications, setting the stage for potential upsets or reinforcing existing favorites. With standout players stepping up and underdogs vying for glory, the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs promise unforgettable entertainment until the final puck drop.