The compressed NHL offseason -- draft, mega-trades and free agency all within a 10-day period -- is an opportunity for every front office to improve its roster. Some general managers need just a few players to remain a top Stanley Cup contender -- or ascend to that status. Others need to be a bit more aggressive to raise their club's competitive level, or perhaps their vision is on 2026-27 or beyond for a serious playoff push.
With the initial wave of additions and adjustments complete, it's time for an honest assessment of each front office based on what was reasonably expected.