I must say, I'm pretty excited about the improvements we've seen to Toronto's drafting and development record... having Stajan, Steen and Wellwood all up with the big club is gratifying, and Colaiacovo, Wozniewski and Kronvall will all see time on the blueline this year. The depth of young defencemen in the organization is really impressive, although there isn't that bona fide blue-chipper, but then our last early 1st rounder was Antropov, so perhaps that isn't surprising. And with young guys like Mitchell and Williams set to pressure for spots in the next couple of years, I'd say the organization has turned a corner with its youth. Still a ways to go, but now they're investing well in scouting and player development, so good signs all around.
As far as knocking off the Sens in the playoffs this year, I'll be happy for Montreal and Ottawa to fight an opening round matchup to see which team gets to lose to us in the second round... :p
But I believe a gauntlet has been thrown down, and if only Mr. Krueger wasn't of the belief that he would challenge for the cup this year, perhaps he might pick it up. As it stands, however, I don't see him making that move this year. Any other interested parties?