Calder Cup Playoffs Overview
The 2026 Calder Cup playoffs are officially underway, and the heat is palpable as 23 teams vie for the most coveted trophy in the American Hockey League (AHL). Excitement is building as new contenders come to the forefront, particularly with the defending champions, the Abbotsford Canucks, missing the playoffs this season. As the postseason unfolds, all eyes are on fan favorites like the Providence Bruins and Grand Rapids Griffins, who lead their respective conferences with strong records.
Where to Watch the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs
- TV Coverage: N/A
- Live Stream: Watch every game through AHLTV on FloHockey
As traditional broadcasting options take a backseat, the push for digital coverage has transformed the way fans connect with the games. AHLTV is offering an innovative solution for hockey lovers wanting to keep up with their favorite teams.
The 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs Schedule
Let's take a closer look at the North, Atlantic, Central, and Pacific divisions as we track the playoff schedule, including key games and scores.
Atlantic Division Finals (Best-of-5)
No. 2 Wilkes-Barre/Scranton vs. No. 6 Springfield
| Date | Game | Time (ET)/Score |
|---|---|---|
| May 12 | Game 1 at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton | Wilkes-Barre/Scranton 2, Springfield 0 |
| May 14 | Game 2 at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton | Springfield 4, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton 3 (OT) |
| May 19 | Game 3 at Springfield | 7:05 p.m. |
| May 21 | Game 4 at Springfield | 7:05 p.m. |
| May 23 | Game 5 at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton* | 6:05 p.m. |
North Division Finals (Best-of-5)
No. 3 Cleveland vs. No. 4 Toronto
| Date | Game | Time (ET)/Score |
|---|---|---|
| May 14 | Game 1 at Cleveland | Toronto 5, Cleveland 2 |
| May 16 | Game 2 at Cleveland | Cleveland 3, Toronto 1 |
| May 20 | Game 3 at Toronto | 7 p.m. |
| May 22 | Game 4 at Toronto | 7 p.m. |
| May 24 | Game 5 at Cleveland* | 7 p.m. |
Central Division Finals (Best-of-5)
No. 1 Grand Rapids vs. No. 2 Chicago
| Date | Game | Time (ET)/Score |
|---|---|---|
| May 14 | Game 1 at Grand Rapids | Chicago 2, Grand Rapids 1 |
| May 16 | Game 2 at Grand Rapids | Chicago 4, Grand Rapids 3 (OT) |
| May 19 | Game 3 at Chicago | 8 p.m. |
| May 21 | Game 4 at Chicago* | 8 p.m. |
| May 23 | Game 5 at Grand Rapids* | 7 p.m. |
Pacific Division Finals (Best-of-5)
No. 2 Colorado vs. No. 4 Coachella Valley
| Date | Game | Time (ET)/Score |
|---|---|---|
| May 13 | Game 1 at Coachella Valley | Colorado 3, Coachella Valley 0 |
| May 15 | Game 2 at Coachella Valley | Coachella Valley 4, Colorado 0 |
| May 17 | Game 3 at Colorado | Colorado 4, Coachella Valley 1 |
| May 20 | Game 4 at Colorado | 9:05 p.m. |
| May 22 | Game 5 at Colorado* | 9:05 p.m. |
Key Players to Watch
As we embark on this thrilling journey toward the Calder Cup, it's crucial to highlight some players who might tip the scales for their teams. Keep an eye on standout talents who could redefine the stakes this postseason, joining the ranks of legendary AHL players.
Looking Ahead
The Calder Cup playoffs are as much about team strength as they are about individual excellence. With strong contenders like the Bruins and Griffins, we're set for an electrifying series of matchups that could very well change the landscape of AHL hockey. Will we witness another underdog victory, or will the favorites assert their dominance? Tune in to find out!
Key Facts
- Teams Competing: 23 teams are competing in the 2026 Calder Cup playoffs.
- Defending Champions: The Abbotsford Canucks, last year's champions, are not participating.
- Top Contenders: The Providence Bruins and Grand Rapids Griffins lead their conferences.
- Broadcasting: Games can be watched via AHLTV on FloHockey.
- Format: The playoffs include multiple best-of-5 series.
Background
The 2026 Calder Cup playoffs are currently in progress, featuring 23 teams in pursuit of the championship. Notably, the Abbotsford Canucks are absent from the competition after winning the title last year, while other teams like the Providence Bruins and Grand Rapids Griffins are strong contenders this season.
Quick Answers
- What teams are competing in the 2026 Calder Cup playoffs?
- A total of 23 teams are competing in the 2026 Calder Cup playoffs.
- Who are the defending champions of the Calder Cup?
- The Abbotsford Canucks are the defending champions but are not participating in the 2026 playoffs.
- Where can I watch the Calder Cup playoffs?
- The Calder Cup playoffs can be watched through AHLTV on FloHockey.
- What are the key teams to watch in the playoffs?
- Key teams to watch include the Providence Bruins and Grand Rapids Griffins, who lead their conferences.
- What format are the Calder Cup playoffs using?
- The Calder Cup playoffs consist of multiple best-of-5 series.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams are in the Calder Cup playoffs?
There are 23 teams competing in the Calder Cup playoffs.
Which teams are favored to win the Calder Cup?
The Providence Bruins and Grand Rapids Griffins are currently favored to win.
Is there traditional TV coverage for the Calder Cup playoffs?
There is no traditional TV coverage available; games are streamed online.
Source reference: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/calder-cup-playoffs-schedule-2026-181510362.html
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