Six NHL general managers under the most pressure in 2025-26
S
Sportsnet
Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →
As the NHL season approaches, certain general managers find themselves under immense scrutiny due to their team's performance and long-term direction. Among them is Brad Treliving of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who faces significant pressure to justify his bold moves over the past year. Acquiring players like Ryan O'Reilly and adding depth to their roster has raised expectations for the Maple Leafs, especially after a disappointing playoff exit.
Meanwhile, Ken Holland of the Edmonton Oilers is also on the hot seat. With stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers are expected to contend for the Stanley Cup. However, a lack of playoff success in recent years has placed Holland’s decisions under the microscope, particularly regarding offseason acquisitions and team chemistry.
Other GMs, such as Jim Nill from the Dallas Stars, are facing their own pressures. Nill has crafted a competitive team that made deep playoff runs but must now ensure that they can consistently challenge for the championship. The window for success is narrowing, making every decision critical for Nill’s future in Dallas.
As teams like the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers look to redefine their identities, the pressure on their GMs remains high. With the league's landscape continually shifting, each decision carries significant potential implications for their franchises. The 2025-26 season promises to be a pivotal moment for many general managers as they navigate the challenges ahead.
Meanwhile, Ken Holland of the Edmonton Oilers is also on the hot seat. With stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers are expected to contend for the Stanley Cup. However, a lack of playoff success in recent years has placed Holland’s decisions under the microscope, particularly regarding offseason acquisitions and team chemistry.
Other GMs, such as Jim Nill from the Dallas Stars, are facing their own pressures. Nill has crafted a competitive team that made deep playoff runs but must now ensure that they can consistently challenge for the championship. The window for success is narrowing, making every decision critical for Nill’s future in Dallas.
As teams like the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers look to redefine their identities, the pressure on their GMs remains high. With the league's landscape continually shifting, each decision carries significant potential implications for their franchises. The 2025-26 season promises to be a pivotal moment for many general managers as they navigate the challenges ahead.