One of the most interesting and controversial subjects in the NHL is the way the playoffs are going. The league reformatted their divisions and conferences in 2013 to reflect a bit how it was in the 1980’s and early ‘90s with division opponents meeting in the first two rounds, with some wildcards mixed in to make sure the most deserving teams made the postseason.
In a sense, the familiarity breeds contempt and rivalry. It’s pretty cool in a sense that if the Penguins make the playoffs, they’re likely to meet a meaningful opponent like the Rangers or Flyers in the first round.