The NHL has 32 active franchises. Exactly half of those (16) qualify for the postseason each year.
Here's a look at the NHL's longest postseason droughts, both active and all time:
Active
Buffalo Sabres: 14 seasons (last postseason appearance: 2011 Eastern Conference quarterfinals vs. Philadelphia Flyers)
Detroit Red Wings: Nine seasons (last postseason appearance: 2016 Eastern Conference first round vs. Tampa Bay Lightning)
Anaheim Ducks: Seven seasons (last postseason appearance: 2018 Western Conference first round vs. San Jose Sharks)
San Jose Sharks: Six seasons (last postseason appearance: 2019 Western Conference finals vs. St. Louis Blues)
All time
Buffalo Sabres: 14 seasons (2012-25)
Florida Panthers: 11 seasons (2001-11)
Edmonton Oilers: 10 seasons (2007-16)
Carolina Hurricanes: Nine seasons (2010-18)
New Jersey Devils: Nine seasons (1979-87)
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