It won’t be long before the NHL Playoffs begin, and although the Ottawa Senators would have a tough time reaching the postseason, there are still plenty of reasons for the fans to watch and enjoy what should be a memorable event. Just last year, we saw a wild card team reach the Stanley Cup Final, so perhaps we’ll be treated to a similar experience when June arrives.
So, if you’re wondering when the playoffs begin in 2024 and if you would like a quick blueprint on how the Senators could still sneak in, keep reading. Here is everything you need to know about the 2024 postseason.
When do the 2024 NHL Playoffs kick off?
The Senators wrap up their season on April 16th, and fans only need to wait a few more days before the postseason action kicks off on April 20th.
How can the Senators make the playoffs in 2024?
The Senators have gotten hot following the 2024 All-Star Break, and while they were still one of the NHL’s worst teams, it was still too early to count them out. They would need some serious stagnation from some division rivals like the Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Maple Leafs, while the Buffalo Sabres and the Montreal Canadiens must remain entrenched in mediocrity.
Should that occur, and if the Senators stay consistent, then they can make an unprecedented run at the playoffs. If not, then they may still keep things interesting in March and April.
Recent history of the Senators in the NHL Playoffs
Unfortunately for the Senators, they haven’t made the playoffs since their magical run in 2017 when they reached the Eastern Conference Finals, losing in seven games to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Their last deep run at the Cup before the 2017 season occurred in 2007 when they reached the Stanley Cup Final before losing in five games to the Anaheim Ducks.
(Historical data provided by Hockey-Reference)