I expect the young players to play with intensity most games. I expect so see more exciting games. Because the team is young, I expect lots of shots on net but little finishing, i.e. not many goals. I think that Price will have a better season but enough for the playoffs? (would require a Vezina to succeed this year, especially the first half of the season).
To make the playoffs, you need a Vegas type season when many players outperform their potential. For that you need Mete, Rielly and Ouellet to have a great season. You need Kotkaniemi to be a star and Drouin becoming one. You need Lehkonen and Armia having their best season. You need Domi to prove doubters wrong. You need Weber back early and in shape. You need Benn and Alzner out of the lineup for some reason (due to bad play, trade, injury, etc.) so to have a faster defense. Gallagher, Byron not sure what to expect; they already did amazing last year. Tatar looks motivated so let's see what he could do here, maybe he will prove Vegas and Detroit wrong. If Danault plays his usual self, would be perfect for the third line. And please let Plekanec play his 1000th game... and after that it is De La Rose all the way.