NHL Teams Face Pressure to Prove Themselves This Season

NEW YORK, NY — As the NHL enters the 2025-26 season, several teams find themselves under pressure to break through after previous struggles. The Florida Panthers, after winning back-to-back Stanley Cups, are now the gold standard for others striving for success.

Teams like the Edmonton Oilers and Carolina Hurricanes are looking to finally establish themselves as champions. The Oilers, led by superstar Connor McDavid, aim to improve upon last season’s playoff performance. “We need to find a way to get to the next level,” said McDavid at a recent press conference.

Similarly, the Hurricanes are focused on translating their regular-season dominance into playoff victories. They have led the NHL in offensive zone time for years but have fallen short in the postseason. “We know we have the talent,” said forward Sebastian Aho. “Now we need to prove it when it matters.”