2020 NHL Playoffs

The 2020 NHL Playoffs took place in a unique “bubble” environment in Edmonton and Toronto due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with all teams secluded to prevent infection. The format expanded from 16 to 24 teams, with play-in rounds and best-of-seven series in a traditional bracket. The Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Dallas Stars in the Finals to win their second Stanley Cup, marking a significant achievement for the franchise. The playoffs featured intense competition, resilience, and adjustments amid extraordinary circumstances, showcasing the sport’s unpredictability and the players' dedication under challenging conditions.