2026 Russell Cup Playoffs

The GMHL will enter the 2026 Russell Cup Playoffs with all teams competing for the prized league championship -- the Russell Cup.

The North and South Divisions will have all 14 Ontario/Quebec teams competing across three playoff rounds. 

Ontario/Quebec:
The North and South Divisions will play within their respective divisions to determine each Divisional champion. Once each division has a champion the North and South Division winners will play a best of 7 series to determine the Russell Cup Champion for the 2026 season.

All teams will recieve the opportunity to compete in playoffs. In the North due to a 6 team uneven bracket, the first and second place regular season team will receive a 'Bye' to advance to the second round. 

Teams are reseeded following every round in reference to the Regular Season standings with the remaining teams -- thus the bracket is subject to change. All teams are given an opportunity in playoffs The top 8 teams in each division at the end of the regular season are automatically seeded into the playoff bracket.

In each division, the highest seed receives home ice advantage in reference to the regular season standings. 

Division Quarter Final - Best of 3
Division Semi-Final - Best of 5
Division Final - Best of 7
Championship - Best of 7