[TrentCrimmIndependent]

Originally Posted by NegativeSpace

I think Edmonton really failed to consider that Smith played very well the last month of the season and in the playoffs. Except for a few puck-handling blunders, he gave them starting goalie minutes at a very cheap cap hit. Add in that they lost Koskinen who when deployed in a backup role is okay. They are now paying someone starting goalie salary, who hasn't proven to be a capable starter over a number of years. They are relying on a rookie who is inconsistent. Their goaltending, in my opinion, has taken a sizable step backwards. They also lost one of their better defencemen in Keith with no replacement. Again, the Edmonton approach is to outscore their problems. It is not that surprising that they are again plagued by slow starts.

Last year, they had a few things fall into place with Kane coming to them cheap and Smith getting hot at the right time of year. We'll see if they can find similar magic in a bottle. I think that they may find themselves on the bubble fighting for a playoff spot, if Vegas is improved this year.

but .. but they got better! because reasons ... full year of kane?