By Justin Arenburg
We`ve all heard the saying, “pressure makes diamonds.” For those in charge of NHL teams, the period from the moment their team is eliminated until the off-season concludes is arguably the most intense.
During this critical window, 31 general managers are focused on assembling a roster capable of competing for the Stanley Cup. For some, the focus isn`t immediate victory but strategically building for the future. For others, success is long overdue, leading to urgent efforts to finalize essential roster pieces.
This summer, several NHL teams and their general managers are under increased scrutiny, whether their goal is immediate contention or laying groundwork for future success.
Chicago Blackhawks
It`s somewhat surprising that the Blackhawks haven`t been discussed more regarding their off-season pressure. GM Kyle Davidson took the helm in October 2021 with the mandate to dismantle the core of the dynasty era featuring Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane.
The rebuild hasn`t been without its challenges. Davidson moved Kane and Toews in the 2022-23 season to fully commit to the tear-down, but subsequent moves have shaped the current state of the team. He traded promising young players like Brandon Hagel and Alex DeBrincat, and notably let Dylan Strome walk as a UFA by not extending a qualifying offer, receiving no assets in return.
Arguably the most fortunate event for Davidson and the Hawks was winning the 2023 draft lottery, which propelled them from third to first overall, securing a potentially franchise-altering player in Connor Bedard.
Chicago`s progress in accelerating the rebuild hasn`t met expectations, despite trying. It`s known that Davidson pursued Jake Guentzel but was outbid by the Tampa Bay Lightning.
“Look, we’re always open to exploring these things, but it’s got to be right. It’s got to make sense. We can’t do something that’s going to be counter to the path that we’ve set out on. If there is a big move that presents itself, that makes sense, then I’m all for exploring that and pursuing something that does make sense,” Davidson stated in an interview with The Athletic.
While the Hawks continue developing their drafted prospects, the time is approaching to acquire significant established talent. With substantial cap space ($29.2 million) and Bedard in dire need of a proven winger, pressure is clearly mounting in Chicago.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Despite winning their first division title in 25 years, defeating the Senators in a playoff series for the first time since 2004, and pushing the defending champions to seven games, last season was still largely seen as a disappointment for the Maple Leafs and their fanbase.
Facing off-season pressure is customary for a team striving for its first Stanley Cup since 1967, but this year feels different. The organization saw the departure of president Brendan Shanahan, and superstar Mitch Marner`s status as a pending free agent adds significant uncertainty. General Manager Brad Treliving has openly stated the team`s “DNA needs to change.”
Whether this transformation involves adding players with a grittier style, perhaps like Sam Bennett or Brad Marchand, or implementing other significant strategic changes, Treliving is entering his third off-season with the Leafs. The expectation is now squarely on him to demonstrate his vision and guide the team towards finally achieving playoff success by 2026.
