16 NHL Teams Plan Offseason Changes After Missing 2026 Playoffs
Sixteen NHL teams missed the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs and are now making plans for the summer. Teams like the Toronto Leafs and Boston Bruins are looking at major roster changes, including possible trades and new coaches.
Half of the NHL's 32 teams failed to make the 2026 playoffs, leaving them to plan major changes for next season. The other 16 teams are competing for the Stanley Cup while the eliminated teams focus on the offseason.
The Toronto Leafs got good news about rookie Easton Cowan, who proved he can play at the NHL level. The team doesn't have many strong prospects in their system, so finding out Cowan is ready helps their planning.
The Boston Bruins are considering big changes after a disappointing season. Team management is looking at moving on from captain Brad Marchand and other veterans. The team also needs to hire a permanent head coach to replace their interim coach.
These eliminated teams will use the summer to trade players, sign free agents, and pick new players in the draft. Each team is trying to figure out what went wrong this season and how to fix it for next year.
These moves will shape next season's teams and could affect ticket prices, local TV coverage, and which players fans see. Some longtime stars might play for new teams next year.
Teams will finalize coaching hires, make trades, and prepare for the NHL draft this summer.
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