The NHL has reached the conference finals, showcasing the Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, Edmonton Oilers, and Florida Panthers as the teams that have advanced. Each of these franchises is accustomed to playoff success, having triumphed over formidable opponents en route to this stage. With their respective campaigns concluded, attention turns to the offseason strategies for the eight teams that did not make it past the opening rounds and how they can improve for future seasons.

In the Western Conference, the Vancouver Canucks may consider a bold trade involving Elias Pettersson. Although it seems unlikely that the Canucks would part with the talented forward after his struggles in the previous season, management could face pressure to reinvigorate their lineup. Colorado might emerge as a desirable destination for Pettersson, providing an appealing style of play and established offensive talent behind Nathan MacKinnon. The Avalanche's aggressive approach in prior seasons points to a willingness to pursue high-caliber players like Pettersson, potentially leading to a trade centered around Martin Necas from the Canucks.

The Los Angeles Kings, following a fourth consecutive first-round playoff exit, are likely seeking improvements, particularly in their goal-scoring ability. Acquiring Rickard Rakell from the Pittsburgh Penguins could provide the Kings with the offensive firepower they desperately need. Rakell's track record as a 35-goal scorer, combined with his reasonable contract, positions him as an attractive trade target for Los Angeles. The Penguins, in pursuit of a roster retool, may find interest in younger prospects from the Kings, such as Alex Turcotte, as they work towards balancing their team in the wake of a disappointing postseason.