The Carolina Hurricanes announced on Apr. 17 their schedule and broadcast information for the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where they will face the Ottawa Senators in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. The series will begin with Game 1 on Saturday at Lenovo Center.
This matchup is significant as it marks the first time these two teams have met in postseason play. The Hurricanes secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a record of 53-22-7, totaling 113 points, while the Senators qualified as a wild card after finishing their season at 44-27-11 with 99 points.
Carolina has made eight consecutive playoff appearances since 2019, setting a franchise record. The team is also one of only five in National Hockey League history to win a series in seven straight postseasons. Since Rod Brind’Amour became head coach during the 2018-19 season, Carolina has won 47 playoff games—ranking third among Eastern Conference teams and fifth overall in the league.
All first-round games will be televised on FanDuel Sports Network and streamed via its app. Mike Maniscalco will serve as play-by-play announcer alongside analyst Tripp Tracy and reporter Hanna Yates. Pre-game and post-game coverage through Hurricanes LIVE will be hosted by Yates with analyst Shane Willis.
According to the official website, players such as Eric Staal and Rod Brind’Amour have been recognized by induction into the Carolina Hurricanes Hall of Fame for their contributions to the team according to the official website. The organization achieved a major milestone by winning its only Stanley Cup championship in 2006 according to the official website.
The Lenovo Center, home arena for Carolina’s games, is located in Raleigh, North Carolina and features over 700,000 square feet with multiple seating levels and amenities including suites and concession stands according to its official website. The venue can accommodate up to 20,000 people and hosts more than 150 events each year according to its official website. In addition to hockey games, it contributes over $200 million annually to Raleigh’s local economy through various events and community engagement initiatives according to its official website.
