I've seen some really bad Leafs teams through the years, some really solid teams as well. This year's Leafs look mostly solid, if certain guys play to their potentials the D might be the best since the Quinn years.
The forwards 1 through 12 may be the best since Dougies years 2-5. If everyone on this seasons team is hitting on all cylinders. If the two rookies(who I think make it) Minten and Cowan contribute 30 goals between them and and not get eaten up.
If the penalty kill can be top 6 and the PP makes the top ten, and the 5v5 offense is also top 10, the I think we'll have enough goaltending that a highly successful regular season is indeed possible and the playoffs certainly within reach.
Playoff success I think will be dependant on none of the corps 4 being hurt and memories of the past stay out of their heads.
That said, I go into every season with a hopeful outlook. I want them to win, I keep the negative thoughts out of it.
People buy lottery tickets and/or gamble not because they believe they'll lose, but because they believe it's possible to win.