As the puck drops on the final matchday of the 2024–25 NHL regular season, Thursday night’s schedule promises high drama, emotional send-offs, and some playoff dress rehearsals. Whether it’s a classic rivalry showdown or a battle of two teams already looking ahead to next year’s draft, there’s something on the line in every single matchup.
From seasoned stars like Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby potentially facing off for the last time, to rising talent like Adam Fantilli and Matvei Michkov looking to make a lasting impression, the 17 April 2025 slate is packed with stories worth watching.
Capitals vs Penguins: A Rivalry’s Final Chapter?
Washington heads to Pittsburgh with the No. 1 seed in the East locked in, but momentum is still the goal. The Capitals haven’t been consistent in recent weeks, but a recent win over the Islanders was a sign they’re tightening up. Dylan Strome’s breakout campaign continues to flourish, and Ovechkin—now the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer—will want to leave his mark in this final game before the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh closes out its season with disappointment. Not only are they missing the playoffs for the third straight year, but they’re also guaranteed their first losing season under Mike Sullivan. Rickard Rakell’s breakout year offers some hope, but with Kris Letang sidelined and inconsistencies mounting, this team is already in off-season mode.
Flyers and Sabres: Draft Position on the Line
Neither Philadelphia nor Buffalo will be seeing playoff hockey this year, but their match-up still has meaning—namely in terms of the NHL Draft lottery. The Flyers, led by rookie standout Michkov, have won both previous meetings this season, but the Sabres will be desperate to avoid a sweep on home ice. With both teams blanked in their most recent outings, expect some fire as they look to close the season on a positive note.
Lightning Strike Again? Rangers Brace for Impact
The Tampa Bay Lightning have clinched second in the Atlantic and look every bit the playoff juggernaut they’ve been in years past. With Kucherov, Guentzel and Point firing on all cylinders, they return to Madison Square Garden after dismantling the Rangers earlier this month.
New York, on the other hand, has endured one of its most disappointing seasons in recent memory. After leading the league last year, they now miss the playoffs entirely—a fate that only three other Presidents’ Trophy winners have faced. With nothing left to play for, this may be a glimpse of the future as the Rangers test out their younger talents.
Columbus and the Islanders Close the Curtain
What could have been a playoff-deciding clash has turned into a farewell fixture. Columbus showed heart with a five-game win streak late in the year, but their fate was sealed by the Canadiens on Wednesday. Still, Adam Fantilli and Co. will want to send fans home with one last win.
For the Islanders, this could be an emotional night. Veteran Matt Martin, a club icon, is expected to skate in his final game. While the team fell short of expectations, a win in his farewell would be a fitting tribute.
Battle of Ontario (Almost): Leafs vs Wings
Toronto has claimed top spot in the Atlantic and is set to meet Ottawa in the first round. Their regular-season finale against Detroit, however, offers a chance to continue building momentum. Marner’s 100-point season and Matthews’ 400th goal are evidence of an elite attack ready for the postseason.
Detroit may have missed out on a playoff spot, but they’ve been no slouches of late, winning three straight. With Dylan Larkin and Alex DeBrincat continuing to lead the charge, the Wings could spoil Toronto’s party if the Leafs ease up.
Senators and Hurricanes Look Ahead
With both teams already secured in the playoffs, Ottawa and Carolina may use this final game as a warm-up. Ottawa’s Brady Tkachuk may return after injury, while Carolina is expected to continue rotating its roster after resting several starters against Montreal. Look for both teams to focus on staying healthy rather than going full tilt, though Ottawa may push harder with a rivalry clash against Toronto looming.
Betting Breakdown: What You Need to Know
At America Bet, we’ve dissected every single fixture in detail. Each match comes with:
- A full preview of both teams, form, injuries and key players
- A prediction for the match winner and likely scoreline
- 10 expert betting tips for every single game
From Ovechkin’s scoring streak to the Maple Leafs’ march into the playoffs, there’s a wealth of betting angles for savvy punters to consider. Whether you’re a fan of totals, moneylines, or player props, the insights in our full match preview will help guide your wagers with confidence.
