NHL playoffs schedule 2016: Capitals, Stars and Sharks try to finish their rivals in Game 5

If all goes well, three teams that play on Friday night will be eliminated from the playoffs.

If all goes poorly, three teams that play on Friday night will be eliminated from the playoffs.

I wrote two ledes so you can choose which one applies to your fandom. You’re welcome.

The first playoff game on Friday takes place in Washington, where the Capitals will get a second chance at knocking out the Flyers after a loss in Game 4. Philadelphia will hope their defense can hold long enough to squeeze a lead from the best team in the league again.

The Islanders then visit the Florida Panthers in Game 5 of a highly competitive series. It’s also the only series in the Eastern Conference guaranteed to go six games. For the first time in the playoffs, the Panthers were able to take a lead and hold it in Game 4, something they need to replicate on Friday.

The Stars regained some of their mojo in a win in Minnesota on Wednesday, and now return home with a chance to eliminate their division rival in five games. With the Stars’ goaltending rotation still in play, it’s anyone’s guess who will start between the pipes.

Finally, the San Jose Sharks return to Los Angeles hoping to send their in-state rivals home packing for good. The Sharks are undefeated in four games in L.A. this season.

Here’s the full schedule with game times (all time ET) and how to watch:

7 p.m. ET | Game 5, Eastern Conference Round 1
Verizon Center | Washington D.C.
Local: Comcast Philly, Comcast DC | National: NBCSN, CBC
Live stream at NBC Sports Live Extra
More coverage: Broad Street Hockey | Japers’ Rink