I don't really care where we finish, because our rebuild will continue regardless. It's not about tanking for high picks- that obviously doesn't work. Edmonton is a prime example, though their unbelievable uselessness landed them McDavid and finally new hope.
Tanking won't solve this. It'll just instill more negativity into the club. Fighting to win and losing due to roster weakness is acceptable/ and I think what everyone means when they say pain is coming.
And hell, let's say we squeak into the playoffs- that would be awesome! It would be great for guys like Winnik, Parenteau, Polak, Lupul, etc. it would be their victory.
And for the youngsters, it would be a great experience and opportunity to show off. We can still ship away guys before/after the draft for picks/prospects. (And, if we made the playoffs these guys would have to have some great years, giving their value a nice little bump).
We won't tank. We'll compete. It may not be pretty, but it's about time this team felt the need to try. Babcock will bring that, and their long term sustainable plan will be followed.