Takeaways from the first 32 Stanley Cup playoff games -- and what comes next

Each series in the 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs has now gotten through Game 4, with no shortage of goalie drama, blowouts and controversy with on-ice officials.

This postseason has certainly been thrilling, and following Monday's wins by the Florida Panthers and Calgary Flames, there will be a total of six Game 5 matchups in which the series is tied 2-2, including all four contests on Tuesday night. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the six 2-2 series in an opening round ties the NHL record, set in 1991.

What have been the biggest lessons learned from the first 32 games this postseason? And how will those trends impact the rest of the first round -- and beyond? Here are our top eight…