Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center Wed Apr 8, 2026 (AP News photo)

NHL podcast Len Shapiro:

#1 How did Connor McDavid’s five-point hat trick impact the Edmonton Oilers’ push for the Pacific Division lead?

#2 What does Luke Hughes being shut down for the season mean for the New Jersey Devils’ future plans?

#3 Why is Ilya Protas’ NHL debut with the Washington Capitals being called “unbelievable,” and what does it signal for their young core?

#4 What are the key playoff implications across the NHL as teams battle for clinching scenarios on April 9?

#5 The Oilers with a victory over the San Jose Sharks on Wednesday night that puts the Oilers in the number seed in the Pacific. Vegas Golden Knights would play the Ducks if the season were to end today. Utah won and their in the playoffs and their wild card one beating the Nashville Predators. That pushed Nashville outside the playoffs. The LA Kings are still in wild card two.

Join Len Shapiro for the NHL podcasts each Thursday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com