Though the run to the Stanley Cup ended early for these teams, all hope is not lost. Here's our guide to the key decisions facing each front office in the months ahead:
May 25
Ottawa Senators
The Senators shocked the hockey world by getting to the Eastern Conference finals. Here's how they get even better for 2017-18.
May 22
Anaheim Ducks
Trade Corey Perry? It might not be as crazy as you think.
May 10
Edmonton Oilers
How do the Oilers maximize their chances of contending while Connor McDavid is still on his entry-level deal? Start here.
Washington Capitals
The Caps have some big decisions to make on Evgeny Kuznetsov, T.J. Oshie and a handful of others.
May 9
New York Rangers
The Rangers have some tough decisions to make ahead of the expansion draft. Here's how they should navigate those calls.
May 7
St. Louis Blues
The Blues will need an injection of youth to keep up with the new wave of speedy teams in the West.
April 23
Toronto Maple Leafs
The Maple Leafs gave the Capitals just about all they could handle, and next year they'll be among the top favorites in the East. But they could use some help on D.
Boston Bruins
Finding help on defense is just one part of the offseason plan for Boston.
April 22
San Jose Sharks
Finding a mutually beneficial deal for Joe Thornton is just one of a handful of key tasks that lay before GM Doug Wilson.
Montreal Canadiens
New deals for a couple key veterans -- and a trade for a former first-rounder -- are just part of the proposed plan for Montreal.
Minnesota Wild
Looking at the expansion draft math, it looks like the Wild may need to trade a defenseman, if they don't want to lose for to Vegas for nothing.
April 20
Chicago Blackhawks
A second straight first-round playoff exit suggests the Blackhawks need to make some significant changes for next season, possibly including a trade of Brent Seabrook.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets were an improved team in 2016-17. Here are the moves they should make to take the next step, and avoid losing an important player in the expansion draft.
April 19
Calgary Flames
The Flames were swept out of the playoffs by the Ducks. Three keys for the club this summer include making a decision on Brian Elliott.