Quote:
Originally Posted by DJones
I am going off the fact that for the last twenty games plus playoffs they looked like a playoff team without Gio.
Hamilton and Fransen easily cover Widemans loss in my opinion. Maybe not this year but in two years I have faith that some of our defensive prospects can be at least solid 3 pairings. Even being pessimistic that seems reasonable.
How good this team could be is completely dependent on development so who knows but in no way is it a lottery team. Unless lottery team means anyway that misses the playoffs.
|
For 20 games they did look good yes, but you can't count on Wideman, Gaudreau, Monahan, and Hudler all playing at a point per game pace over a full season. Especially Wideman (or his replacement in Franson who is a downgrade imo)
It also wasn't an ideal situation basically only using 4 defenseman. Over the short term that can work, but over a full season fatigue and injuries will catch up to you. The team listed lacks depth on the blue line.
I think you are really underrating how much Gio brings to this team. In his abilities and by pushing everyone down a spot.
I agree that posted roster isn't a lottery team, but they aren't a contender either. Which is the ultimate goal.