Atlanta Thrashers Playoff Hopes Dwindling

With a loss on Monday night to the Carolina Hurricanes, the Thrashers did not do themselves any favors. With the season's end quickly approaching and sitting two points behind the Bruins, the Thrashers must capitalize on every chance they get.

The fortunate development for Atlanta is Boston's struggles this season. With Marc Savard most likely out for the remained of the season, Boston is struggling to win the key games necessary to keep the Thrashers and Rangers at bay. It will be another difficult game for the Burins on Tuesday as they square off with the powerful Devils. The only good news for Boston is having a game in hand on Atlanta and two more points. That lead can quickly change tonight.

Atlanta will face the Leafs on Tuesday and have a respectable chance to add two points. With the Capitals and Penguins next on their schedule, this is the best prayer they have for a win in their next three matchups. NHL odds are also giving Atlanta better chances to win tonight than Boston, although both are going into their respective matchups as underdogs.

NHL Eastern Conference Playoff Battle

With four playoff spots already secured in the East, it leaves the remaining four open for battle. That is just numbers, but in reality it is five teams battling for three spots. Senators are just too far ahead at this point to lose out on a spot.

As it stands, Flyers, Canadiens, and Bruins are in for now. The Thrashers and Rangers are on the outside looking in.

The Flyers have really struggled in their last ten, but should be able to find enough in the tank down the stretch to make it. Canadiens too, will most likely hold on to a spot.

That leaves the Bruins, Thrashers, and Rangers battling for the last and final spot. All three teams still have a legitimate chance with just over five games to go. This is panning out to be a race to the finish. It may be easier to understand the final four odds than to guess the result of this one.

Whatever team does end up clinching the final spot will have to face the red-hot Washington Capitals. The Capitals will go for target practice in the first round with anyone they face.