Also, the Pens have finished with a stronger team than they started the season with the last two seasons running. Player development and AHL promotions are just as valid a way to strengthen a team as trade, and trades can happen during the season as well too. If we're weaker now than when we won the Cup then... okay? Once again, we'll be looking to strengthen during the season.
Although I have to agree with Ogrezilla - any comparison of where the team stood in July and where the team stands now has to factor in that Letang is fit again (and hopefully stays that way).