When a team wins a Stanley Cup, the following year is met by nothing but expectations for another. Generally speaking, anything less than a championship is considered unsuccessful, despite the fact that teams rarely do repeat as champions in any league.
↵But don't tell the staff of the Pittsburgh Penguins website about this. Despite losing to an eight seed (albeit a very, very tough eight seed) in the second round, they're calling the Pens season a success. A screen capture, which you can click to enlarge:
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I have a feeling that Penguins fans and players don't feel the 2009-10 season was a success.