But Buffalo does have the talent or proven vets? What have they proven over the last five years other than they're a perpetual bubble team? And you'll have to point me to all the Cup winners on Buffalo's roster.
As of March 1 last year the Jets were in the top-8 and two points out of their division lead. They have an emerging superstar in Kane, lost nobody of importance from last season's roster, and added Jokinen who, even if not an elite player, is a proven 2C in the league. The Jets were in the playoff race until the final five games last year, notwithstanding the fact they got only 66, 62, and 65 games from their top three defensemen (Byfuglien, Enstrom, and Bogo). They were also one of the better Fenwick (possession) teams in the conference. If they can get even league-average goaltending and improve just slightly on the road, they will be right there.
Anything can happen in a 48-game season, and much will depend on team health. Might the Jets miss the playoffs? Sure. But reading those tea leaves set forth above indicates that they may be an improved team this year. Rough crowd over an 8th place prediction.