As the 2025 NHL playoffs approach, many players are under pressure to perform. But some experienced names have even more at stake this time. Whether it’s chasing their first Stanley Cup, overcoming past playoff struggles, or proving they still have what it takes—these five players need to step up big time.
Claude Giroux – Time Is Running Out
Claude Giroux has always been a reliable player in the regular season. The 37-year-old forward has 49 points in 78 games with the Ottawa Senators this season. But when it comes to the playoffs, Giroux hasn’t had much success.
This year is his first return to the playoffs in almost three seasons. In his last post-season with Florida in 2022, he had 8 points in 10 games. But before that, with the Flyers, his playoff stats were poor—just 12 points in 28 games.
Giroux is running out of chances to lift the Stanley Cup. The Senators need him to bring secondary scoring support behind their young stars like Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stutzle. This might be his last big playoff moment.
Connor Hellebuyck – Vezina Form Must Translate to Playoffs
Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is having an incredible season. With a 44-12-3 record, a 2.02 goals-against average (GAA), and a .924 save percentage (SP), he is the clear favourite to win the Vezina Trophy.
But his playoff history tells a different story. Last year, Hellebuyck posted a 1-4 record with a shocking 5.23 GAA and .870 SP. In 2023, he also had just one win in five games.
Now 31, Hellebuyck must finally prove that he can carry his team in the post-season. The Jets need him to be their difference-maker, especially after multiple early exits. If he struggles again, the criticism will be louder than ever.
Patrik Laine – Time to Deliver in Montreal
Patrik Laine, now with the Montreal Canadiens, has scored 20 goals in 48 games this season. It’s the seventh time in his nine-year career he’s hit the 20-goal mark. While his playoff stats are decent—16 points in 24 games—most of that came years ago.
Since 2018, he’s played just seven playoff games, scoring only 4 points in that stretch. This year, Montreal will likely enter the playoffs as a wild-card team. Laine needs to show he can lead on the ice and help the Canadiens push their first-round opponent hard.
At 26, Laine still has time to prove he can be part of a winning team, but his window as a key player is starting to close.
Jacob Markstrom – The Pressure Is on in New Jersey
Jacob Markstrom, the 35-year-old Swedish goalie, joined the New Jersey Devils from Calgary this season. He had an average year, with a .899 SP and 2.53 GAA in 48 games.
Markstrom has played in only two previous playoff runs, with decent stats—13 wins, 13 losses, and a .911 SP. But this time, the Devils will need much more, especially as they face the tough Carolina Hurricanes in Round One.
This could be Markstrom’s last big opportunity to show that he can lead a team deep into the playoffs. If he fails, the Devils might look for a new starter next season.
Mitch Marner – A Defining Postseason for a Leafs Star
Mitch Marner, one of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ biggest names, faces a massive challenge. He’s a pending free agent and could demand more than $13 million per season. But that depends on how he performs in the playoffs.
Marner has strong post-season numbers—50 points in 57 games—but fans and critics will judge him on results, not stats. If the Leafs don’t reach at least the Eastern Conference Final, the pressure will fall heavily on Marner.
If Toronto fails early again, he could be the one on his way out. With a contract decision coming, this playoff run will likely define Marner’s future in Toronto and his value across the league.
As the playoffs begin, players like Giroux, Hellebuyck, Laine, Markstrom, and Marner carry extra weight on their shoulders. Some are chasing their first Cup, others are running out of time, and a few are playing to keep their spots or earn big contracts. No matter the situation, these NHLers must prove themselves when it matters most. Their performances could shape not just their careers, but the future of their teams.
