Canadian teams dominated the National Hockey League in the decades following World War II, winning the Stanley Cup 13 times between 1940 and 1993. However, in the 31 seasons since 1993, Canadian teams have not secured a single championship. This stark contrast highlights the significant changes Canada has undergone since the war, paralleling the challenges Prime Minister Mark Carney faces as he prepares for a federal budget set for November.

In 1940, the NHL consisted of just six teams, while today there are 32. The number of games played has also increased from 48 to 82 per season. The playoff format has evolved from a maximum of 14 games to a lengthy series that can extend into July. Carney has likened the current economic challenges to those faced by Canada during and after the war. Following the April election, he promised a “transformation” of the economy, the most significant since World War II.

This month, Carney introduced a new industrial strategy aimed at reducing reliance on specific trade partners and enhancing resilience against global economic shocks. He emphasized the need for a strong foundation of Canadian industries supported by diverse international trade relationships. The success of this strategy is crucial for the government’s credibility and future, hinging on Canadians' willingness to embrace the changes ahead.

However, support for these changes is not guaranteed. The recent decision to end home delivery by Canada Post, which could lead to significant job losses, prompted postal workers to initiate a national strike. Additionally, the Parliamentary Budget Office has forecasted a sharp increase in the deficit in the upcoming budget, largely due to promised spending to assist groups affected by U.S. tariffs and trade actions.

The Canada of today is vastly different from the post-war nation. In 1945, the population was around 11 million, predominantly white and European, with a shared ambition for progress and a willingness to work hard for it. Canadians then had a collective drive for security and stability, viewing government primarily as a facilitator of their efforts to improve their lives.

In contrast, modern Canada is larger, more diverse, and better educated, with greater expectations of government support. Since the establishment of the welfare state, Ottawa has evolved into a provider of benefits, promising increasing support at little or no cost. Carney’s approach seeks to shift some of the responsibility and challenges back to Canadians as the economy is restructured for sustainability.

The November budget will serve as an early indicator of how these plans will unfold. Carney has indicated it will balance austerity with spending, a challenging task given that austerity is often perceived negatively. The character of the budget remains uncertain, but it will be a critical test of the government's strategy and its ability to navigate the complexities of a changing economic landscape.