I was once an avid player of the game back in the day and I just started playing again about a month ago. So I guess it goes without saying I have my fair share of losses to the CPU. However, if I'm using an elite team (Chicago, ect), then it doesn't happen that often. I usually use a lower-tier team like the Islanders and have a tough time winning consistantly, but it helps me improve my skills.
I hope one day I do become good enough that losing to the cpu is a rarity. At the same time, I don't ever want to get to the point where I'd want to "kill myself" for letting the cpu beat me. That keeps the game interesting when you can't get an on-line game.