As the Stanley Cup Playoffs reach their most intense stages in 2025, pressure mounts on the league’s biggest stars and key contributors. Every shift, every pass, every shot can define legacies, careers, and entire franchises. While hockey is a team sport, certain players carry the weight of expectation heavier than others—whether it’s due to their role, contract, past playoff performances, or the hopes of their fanbases. Here’s a look at some of the players feeling the most pressure as the NHL’s postseason drama unfolds.
Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
Widely regarded as the best player in the world, McDavid carries the immense burden of ending Canada’s 32-year Stanley Cup drought. His dazzling skill and speed make him the focal point of the Oilers’ offense, but with that comes the expectation to consistently deliver in high-stakes moments. Every playoff run is judged through his performance lens, and with the Oilers on the cusp of glory, the pressure to finally bring the Cup home is enormous.
Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple Leafs
Despite regular-season dominance, Matthews and the Maple Leafs have repeatedly stumbled in the playoffs. The Toronto media spotlight is relentless, and fans demand a championship. Matthews faces scrutiny not only for his goal-scoring but for elevating his leadership and defensive game. This postseason could define his legacy in the city where hockey is a religion.
Cale Makar, Colorado Avalanche
Makar’s offensive prowess and skating make him one of the game’s most exciting defensemen, but as the Avalanche’s defensive leader, the weight of balancing offense with shutdown responsibilities rests heavily on his shoulders. The Avalanche are perennial contenders, and expectations are sky-high for Makar to be a game-changer on both ends.
Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche
A dynamic forward with game-winning talent, MacKinnon often faces the pressure of being Colorado’s primary offensive weapon. His ability to carry the team through tough stretches will be critical as the Avalanche look to make a deep run.
Mathew Barzal, New York Islanders
Barzal is at a crossroads with the Islanders. Expected to be the franchise cornerstone, his playoff performances have been inconsistent. This postseason represents a chance to cement his status as a true leader and star, but with that comes mounting pressure.
Igor Shesterkin, New York Rangers
As the Rangers’ number one goalie, Shesterkin is tasked with stealing games and keeping his team competitive against some of the league’s most potent offenses. His performance in net could be the difference between a long playoff run and an early exit.
Victor Hedman, Tampa Bay Lightning
A seasoned veteran and former Norris Trophy winner, Hedman’s leadership and steady defensive play are vital for the Lightning’s championship aspirations. With age and playoff wear potentially catching up, the pressure to perform at elite levels intensifies.
Jack Eichel, Vegas Golden Knights
Eichel has battled injuries and inconsistent team success in recent years. Now healthy and in his prime, he faces pressure to justify the hype and lead Vegas deep into the playoffs.
Pressure in the Stanley Cup Playoffs is inevitable, but for these players, it’s a defining part of their journey. How they respond to the expectations will not only impact their teams’ fates but also their legacies in the sport. As the battle for the Stanley Cup heats up, all eyes will be on these stars to see who thrives under the bright lights—and who cracks under the weight of playoff pressure.
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