The 2023-2024 NHL season is just around the corner, and with it, the hopes of several teams to end their lengthy playoff droughts. For years, some franchises have struggled to find consistency and make a deep postseason run. As the league's top contenders continue to dominate, a new crop of teams is emerging as potential Stanley Cup contenders. Among them are several squads with the longest playoff droughts, including the Arizona Coyotes, who have not seen the postseason since 2012, and the Buffalo Sabres, who last made the playoffs in 2011. With key offseason additions and a renewed sense of determination, these teams are now closer than ever to breaking their droughts and making a serious push for the Stanley Cup.

Which NHL teams with the league's longest playoff droughts are closest to being a Stanley Cup contender?