The NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs are always full of surprises, but for some top teams, early elimination isn’t just disappointing — it could lead to big changes. Over the years, several strong teams have made it to the playoffs only to fall short, either in the early rounds or right before the final. For these clubs, the pressure is higher than ever this season.
A first-round exit could mean roster overhauls, changes in management, or even the end of a competitive era. Let’s take a closer look at six NHL teams that simply can’t afford to be knocked out in the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Carolina Hurricanes: Running Out of Chances
The Carolina Hurricanes have been one of the NHL’s top teams in recent years, but their playoff results haven’t matched their regular-season success. In four of the last six seasons, they didn’t get past the second round, and in the other two, they were swept in the Eastern Conference Final. That’s a frustrating pattern for a team considered a true contender.
This year, they’re facing the New Jersey Devils in Round 1 — another team under pressure to go deep. If Carolina loses early, it could lead to major changes. General Manager Eric Tulsky already showed he’s willing to shake up the team when he traded Martin Necas and brought in Mikko Rantanen. With eight players heading to free agency, a first-round loss could be the final straw, forcing a roster rebuild.
To meet expectations, the Hurricanes must at least reach the Eastern Conference Final. Anything less would be a step back.
Dallas Stars: Built to Win Now
The Dallas Stars are heading into the playoffs with high hopes after another strong season. They’re likely to finish second in the Central Division, setting up a tough first-round series against the Colorado Avalanche.
Dallas reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2020 and made it to the Western Conference Final twice in the last two years, but couldn’t go further. With the addition of Mikko Rantanen, this team is designed to win now. Losing in the first round would be a huge setback.
The Stars’ biggest challenge may come early in Round 1. But given their depth, experience, and recent playoff success, they’re expected to go far — possibly all the way to the Cup Final. Anything less, and it could be seen as a wasted season.
Edmonton Oilers: No More Excuses
The Edmonton Oilers were just one win away from winning the Stanley Cup last season. But this year, they finished third in the Pacific Division, and they’re expected to face the Los Angeles Kings in the first round again.
With stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, expectations are always sky-high. But if their goaltending falters again, it could lead to more questions about their playoff potential. The Oilers have beaten the Kings in the past, but this year, L.A. has home-ice advantage and a strong record at home.
A first-round loss would not only be disappointing but could force management to find a reliable goalie over the summer. The pressure is huge — the Oilers must go deep.
Los Angeles Kings: A Must-Win Series
The Kings are in a make-or-break moment. Their consistent playoff appearances haven’t translated into wins against top teams like the Oilers. But now, with a stellar home record, they have the best chance in years to knock out Edmonton.
If they lose again, major changes could follow, including possibly replacing GM Rob Blake. But if they win, it could give the franchise the confidence to continue building and competing for years to come.
This first-round matchup is everything for L.A. — their playoff future depends on it.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Time to Prove Themselves
Toronto fans have heard it all before — this is the year the Leafs need to show they can win in the playoffs. They’ve struggled to make deep runs and are under immense pressure.
Another early exit could lead to sweeping changes. President Brendan Shanahan might be replaced, and star players like Mitch Marner or John Tavares could be traded.
The good news is that the Leafs have one of their strongest rosters in years, with solid defense, reliable goaltending, and plenty of scoring depth. If they can stay focused, they might finally make it past the second round.
Winnipeg Jets: No More Early Exits
The Winnipeg Jets are having a great regular season and might win the Presidents’ Trophy. But that hasn’t meant much in recent years — they’ve been knocked out early time and time again.
Their likely first-round opponents are the Blues or Wild, both tough teams, but Winnipeg will be the favorite. Another short playoff run could finally push the team to make major changes to a core that has been given many chances.
Jets fans have been patient, but the team needs to go deep this time. A strong playoff run is long overdue.
For these six NHL teams — Hurricanes, Stars, Oilers, Kings, Maple Leafs, and Jets — this year’s playoffs are more than just a shot at the Stanley Cup. They’re about proving they can win when it matters most. The pressure is intense, and for some teams, falling short could lead to major changes.
Whether it’s players, coaches, or front office staff, everyone will be under the microscope. As the playoffs begin, fans will be watching closely, knowing that the future of their favorite teams could depend on the next few weeks.
