Pressure in the NHL is a formidable force that varies significantly from team to team. Some franchises focus on improvement with aspirations of reaching the playoffs, while others grapple with the immense expectation to win the Stanley Cup. The context of urgency fluctuates in volume across the league. The Florida Panthers have recently showcased a remarkable trajectory toward the Stanley Cup Final, making their successes appear deceptively effortless, particularly in their championship run last season. However, the journey is far from simple. Several teams that have persistently sought a spot in the Final and a championship face increasingly difficult conversations at season's end when their efforts fall short. This article centers on a selection of noteworthy franchises that may need to consider substantial changes to turn their fortunes around in the face of repeated disappointments.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are a case in point. Should they encounter another early postseason exit, questions will inevitably arise about their future direction. This summer, they parted ways with Mitch Marner after it became evident that he would not re-sign with the team. While losing a player of Marner’s caliber—a top-10 talent in the league—is significant, Toronto retains star players like Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and has made commitments to John Tavares and Matthew Knies. Nonetheless, numerous concerns persist. The aging defense raises questions about its ability to perform effectively. Is Morgan Rielly capable of being the leading defenseman the team requires? Are goalies Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz able to maintain their health and performance to support the team effectively? General Manager Brad Treliving's roster adjustments indicate an intent to transform Toronto into a more physical and challenging opponent, which is necessary in competition with teams like Florida, Ottawa, and Montreal. However, should this strategy falter, the coming summer will once again leave fans pondering the right course of action.

Parallel to Toronto are the New York Rangers, who seem to be in a potential state of upheaval. Following a lackluster season, owner James Dolan is unlikely to remain passive, feeling the urgency to pursue a Stanley Cup. The Rangers executed trades involving notable players Chris Kreider and K'Andre Miller this summer, suggesting a shift in strategy. Their faith in reallocating resources was evident when they acquired J.T. Miller and secured Vladislav Gavrikov, operating under the guidance of new head coach Mike Sullivan. With talents like Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, and Alexis Lafrenière on the roster, hopes remain that they can contend. Yet, with Panarin approaching free agency next summer, another unsuccessful season could prompt substantial changes for the Rangers.

The Los Angeles Kings also face a unique challenge as they have consistently encountered obstacles, notably the Edmonton Oilers, in the playoffs over the past four seasons. After falling to the Oilers last season, General Manager Rob Blake stepped down and Ken Holland stepped in, bringing a strategic approach in his new role. Holland's acquisition of veteran defenders Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin signifies a deliberate shift to bolster the defense as the team navigates a roster featuring veteran stars like Anze Kopitar and Drew Doughty. Despite having impressive younger talents, the expected transition has yet to materialize. Should age become a liability or if the Oilers eliminate them from the playoffs again, discussions around parting ways with older players could gain traction for long-term viability.

The Washington Capitals' approach to free agency over the past year met with mixed reviews. Some observers perceived their signings as a desperate attempt to provide veteran support for Alex Ovechkin and secure a return to the playoffs, while others viewed them as a strategic move to capitalize on recent momentum. Notably, the addition of Jakob Chychrun bolstered the blue line, and their success reflected in the regular season led to a promising playoff position. As Ovechkin continues his illustrious career in Washington, future plans must consider life after his tenure. A season without substantial advancement, particularly in pursuit of another Stanley Cup, may necessitate a reevaluation of their trajectory going forward.

Finally, the Dallas Stars present intriguing possibilities as they embark on a new season. After last year's defeat in the Western Conference Final—marking their third consecutive year falling short—they parted ways with head coach Pete DeBoer, reinstating Glen Gulutzan who previously led the team. The implications of this change could be significant for the franchise. Jason Robertson's contract status looms large, with him scheduled to be a restricted free agent and set to potentially enter unrestricted free agency in two seasons. Dallas has considerable financial commitments tied to several key players, which may compel management to contemplate strategic moves should the team struggle in the postseason again. Should they need to maintain salary cap flexibility, trading Robertson could become a consequential decision for the team's future dynamics.

The Edmonton Oilers, amidst a 'win-now' window, have fallen short in their championship aspirations despite significant playoff journeys in recent years. Their heartbreaking defeat to the Panthers in the five-game series last summer exposed underlying vulnerabilities in their roster. With a competitive landscape to navigate in the Western Conference, the challenges posed by teams like the Kings and Stars remain formidable. As Connor McDavid approaches a pivotal moment in his contract negotiations, the potential for another season ending without a Cup may prompt the franchise to reevaluate its core structure. If McDavid's future in Edmonton hangs in the balance, difficult choices may loom ahead.