Please quote cause I have seen zero back-peddling thus far.
The Sharks traded away players, got no players back in return, didn't trade any picks or futures for players, and then signed two 4th liners in free agency.
That's how rebuilding teams handle the off-season. There is zero doubt in my mind that Wilson has no intention of competing this year. My bet is between now and the deadline we see him also move Kennedy, Burish, Niemi, and probably Thornton and Marleau (if and when the Sharks are not in a playoff spot come deadline). I honestly don't think Wilson even want's to make the playoffs this season.
1. actions speak louder than words, I don't need to quote him
2. they traded away dead weight. players that had ZERO value to the team. in fact this is what CONTENDING teams do, not rebuilding. The only impact player they lost was Dan Boyle, a 38 year old declining player, something other CONTENDERS would've done similar.
3. GMs don't choose whether or not they make the playoffs, their job is to get the most amount of wins possible, period. If he wants to lose, he may as well just fire himself right now.