As the NHL playoffs heat up, fans are feeling the intensity—and the teams are no exception! Every game feels monumental, and the pressure is sky-high. Let’s dive into the season’s pressure rankings, from teams that can afford a loss to those that absolutely can't.

16. Montreal Canadiens

The Canadiens are playing with house money this season. No one expected them to be here, and if they lose, it’s just a bump on their exciting journey, leaving fans optimistic for the future.

15. Minnesota Wild

After missing last year, the Wild are back but face tough odds against the Golden Knights. If they exit early again, it could signal the end of their playoff passivity, despite promising young talent.

14. St. Louis Blues

The Blues made a surprising late-season push but are heavy underdogs against the Jets. A loss would feel like a missed opportunity, reminiscent of their underdog story in 2019.

13. New Jersey Devils

After addressing goaltending, the Devils squeaked into the playoffs but are struggling without key player Jack Hughes. An early exit seems likely, but it may be dismissed due to his absence.

12. Florida Panthers

Coming off their first-ever Cup win, expectations are lower, but the Panthers want to avoid a quick exit against their longtime rivals, the Lightning. A loss would darken their recent stellar run.

11. Ottawa Senators

After years of struggle, the Senators are back on the playoff stage. A chance to prove they can hang with the Maple Leafs is enticing, but a loss would feel like a missed shot at redemption.

10. Colorado Avalanche

The Avs face a tough road against the Stars. Their playoff format has drawn criticism, and any missteps could confirm doubts about their abilities in clutch situations.

9. Vegas Golden Knights

Though they previously clinched a Cup, the Golden Knights expect only success. A second disappointment could spark drastic changes within their roster and management.

8. Washington Capitals

Despite exceeding preseason expectations, a first-round exit feels like a letdown—especially if critics claim they were never serious contenders. This season could be their last best shot.

7. Los Angeles Kings

The Kings are still seen as underdogs, with a need to overcome the Oilers. Losing again would reinforce unfortunate truths about their progress under pressure.

6. Toronto Maple Leafs

With a long Canoe drought, the Leafs are feeling the heat. A loss against their Canadian rivals would mean relentless commentary about their inability to win when it matters.

5. Edmonton Oilers

Once the top-ranked team, the Oilers face mounting concerns. Last year they were close; now, losing this season could jeopardize the future of their star duo.

4. Carolina Hurricanes

Despite making the playoffs for the seventh straight year, the Hurricanes still haven't clinched a Cup. A failure to convert this season would lead to second-guessing decisions made throughout the year.

3. Tampa Bay Lightning

With two Cups already to their name, the Lightning have devoted their efforts to winning more. Yet facing off against their rival Panthers has only heightened the stakes of this series.

2. Dallas Stars

In their pursuit of a championship, the Stars are under significant pressure. Injuries might give them a pass if they lose, but there’s no forgetting how close they’ve come.

1. Winnipeg Jets

The Jets have enjoyed a season to remember, capturing the Presidents Trophy and boasting stellar player performances. However, if they falter now, they may waste the best chance in franchise history to win big. This postseason is crucial for a market that faces unique challenges.