Playoffs matchups are set - view the schedule here. The 2009 NHL Playoffs start on April 9. The NHL playoffs is the most watched hockey tournament.

NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs 2009

With the playoffs fast approaching there are many exciting games and events outside the rinks that keep hockey fans glued to their TVs. What's happening the Senators? Are the Leafs going to make it to the playoffs? Is Detroit going to win the Stanley Cup for sure? How to get tickets to the games? What are the "exact" rules anyways?

Who will win the 2009 Stanley Cup? Vote here and see results

The Leafs are not seeing the playoffs for third year in a row? Click here to read full story

Go to the 2009 NHL Playoffs tickets website for tickets and other NHL related information.

For those visitos who are new to the game but want to get involved, here are some basics about the NHL: The NHL Playoffs also called the Stanley Cup Playoffs is a hockey tournament played in the National Hockey League between the best teams during regular season matches.

The league was founded Montreal with only 4 teams. After many changes to rules, regulations and new teams joining the competition, the league currently consists of 30 teams - 6 in Canada and the rest in the States. After the cancellation of the 2004-2005 season (over labour issues), everything's back to normal and the games are more exciting than ever.