The pressure in the NHL varies significantly from team to team. While some organizations focus on improvement with hopes of making the playoffs, others carry the weight of expectations to win the Stanley Cup, with time always seeming to run short. The Florida Panthers, who have reached the Stanley Cup Final in recent years and claimed victory last season, illustrate that success is not always straightforward. Teams striving to reach the Final and secure a championship face increasingly tough conversations each season they fall short, a reality that only compounds with time. This piece will examine several noteworthy teams that may need to consider significant changes in their roster to improve upon repeated disappointments.

The Toronto Maple Leafs, long considered contenders, face another pivotal season. Despite releasing Mitch Marner this summer due to contractual difficulties, the Leafs have retained key players, including Auston Matthews and William Nylander, while also re-signing veteran John Tavares and extending Matthew Knies. Despite these positives, several pressing questions linger: Will their aging defense hold up? Can Morgan Rielly thrive as a number-one defenseman? Will Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz manage to stay healthy in goal? General Manager Brad Treliving's recent moves suggest a shift toward a more physical style of play, aiming to compete with teams like the Panthers, Senators, and Canadiens. However, if results do not improve, fans might once again find themselves wondering about the future of the franchise.

The New York Rangers have also faced scrutiny for their roster decisions. Recent trades involving Chris Kreider and K'Andre Miller raised questions about the team's direction, but management, under owner James Dolan, remains intent on contending for the Stanley Cup. Signing players like J.T. Miller and Vladislav Gavrikov indicates a strategic pivot as they adapt to a new coaching staff led by Mike Sullivan. With key talents such as Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, and Igor Shesterkin, the Rangers still possess a formidable roster. However, with Panarin approaching free agency next summer, another season without playoff success could necessitate major changes for the franchise.

The Los Angeles Kings have shown promise but have struggled to advance past the Edmonton Oilers in recent playoffs. The team, with veteran leaders like Anze Kopitar and Drew Doughty, has adjusted its roster by adding veteran defensemen Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin. Despite a wealth of young talent, including Quinton Byfield and Brandt Clark, the absence of a successful transition to a new generation poses challenges. If the Kings' aging core falters or if they again fall short of playoff expectations, management may need to reassess the balance between experienced players and emerging stars for long-term success.

The Washington Capitals took a mixed approach to free agency last season, signing players to support Alex Ovechkin. While some viewed these moves as desperate attempts to maintain playoff hopes, others acknowledged the ambition of recapturing previous momentum. The acquisition of Jakob Chychrun enhanced their defense alongside John Carlson, contributing to a successful regular season. With Ovechkin committed to playing in D.C., the Capitals aspire to contend for the Cup. However, the organization must formulate a plan for life after Ovechkin, especially if they fail to capitalize on their recent successes and advance further in the postseason.

The Dallas Stars are entering a critical phase as they look to shake things up following another loss in the Western Conference Final. The firing of Pete DeBoer led to the return of Glen Gulutzan, yet questions remain about the team's trajectory. An eye on rising star Jason Robertson, who will be a restricted free agent next summer, complicates matters as the Stars need to manage their salary cap carefully. If the team struggles again, significant changes may be in order to preserve cap flexibility while maintaining a competitive roster.

Lastly, the Edmonton Oilers are firmly in a 'win-now' mindset as they enter the new season. Having come close to clinching the Stanley Cup in previous years, they are acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead. The recent playoff losses to the Panthers highlighted existing weaknesses in their lineup that require attention. With Connor McDavid's future in Edmonton uncertain after this season, failure to secure the Cup could prompt a reevaluation of the roster and strategies going forward.