The AHL is testing a new playoff format and speculation is that it could be the guinea pig for a future change in the NHL format as it is often the case that the AHL is the test ground for such things.
https://theleafsnation.com/news/the-...ething-like-it
I'll let people read it because it is kind convoluted, but basically 23 of the 32 teams will make the playoffs. Some teams will have to play a best of 3 in the first round, followed by preliminary best of 5 rounds, and two best of 7 rounds for the semi-final and final. Plus some teams will get a bye in the first round.
Sounds overly complex, but they probably see how they can make more money by expanding the playoffs.