NHL general managers are actively preparing during the Olympic break, driven by the critical need to secure playoff positions. The Los Angeles Kings exemplify this urgency, trading for Artemi Panarin just before the break only to watch forward Kevin Fiala suffer a season-ending leg fracture while playing for Switzerland.

This situation underscores why front offices haven't truly rested, as the roster freeze lifts on February 22nd and the regular season resumes February 25th. Teams are using the break to assess their playoff positioning and potential buyer/seller status, knowing the next few weeks could determine their postseason fate.