A reality check. That's ok. Put the season record, in pure numbers, to one side, and look at the roster. As it is, can it win a Cup? Yes, if the 2019 Blues can win one, then this group certainly can. But is it the sort of dominant team with stacks of talent, depth and grit that we've seen in recent times in Colorado and Tampa, a roster that you feel should have the edge on just about any opponent? No, I would say not. The top-end talent is a little light on and/or a little old, the middle 6 is not settled and feels a bit soft, the 4th line likewise lacks physical presence, the defense works well as a unit but certain players are vulnerable to being exposed at times and making some quite basic errors. As a whole, genuine speed and a team that is good at shutting down their transition game and taking away space both can trouble them.
How much better can the team become? With the cap and assets situation as they are, Sweeney's going to have to be really precise and really smart in the moves he makes. He's put together a good group here, made a great call with the coach. But there's still work to be done. The team's earned some help, and also shown at least some of its flaws. On the GM now to take what he sees, and what he's got, and make some magic.
