A few thoughts about the media interviews, with random additional editorial comments:
Chevy-I thought this was one of his better interviews. He has done a good job dealing away unhappy players, but has made his share of mistakes and has some major challenges ahead. He needs a better 1C if he's going to win in the playoffs and another puck-moving D. The opportunity cost of keeping Stanley has been significant.
Bones-He was dignified and restrained, likely because he knows he is retiring and wants to leave on good terms with everyone.
Lowry and Morrissey-I consider them co-captains and they showed why. Along with Helle they are the core.
Scheifele-He is not very--umm--cerebral and not a natural leader, so I would not judge his interview too harshly. He is probably fine as a 2C or 1RW but we won't win a SC with him as a 1C.
Connor-OK interview. Gifted scorer, but it's not clear to me that he will stay with this team long-term. Chevy needs to keep an eye on this next season.
Tofolli and Monahan--gone and likely gone. Monahan is the better of the 2, but will likely get more than he is worth as a UFA.
DeMelo-Great guy, wants to be here and is our only reliable RD. Re-sign him, please, unless he asks for the moon.
Dillon-he outperformed my expectations and is a great leader on and off the ice, but not sure we can afford him. Also, we need to give Samberg and/or Ville opportunities as 2LD. And Chisholm....oops, nvm...
Schmidt gave a good interview, but is a very expensive third pair D. Pionk was quiet and is a liability for another year. I would not be surprised to see the team take a step back next year if they can't be traded or bought out.
Helle--His interview was hilarious and I've gotten used to the bravado--it's his secret sauce to keep his confidence up. He is top 5 in the world at his position and I don't believe that this playoff loss was on him. He just didn't win it for us alone. Short sample sizes for goalies are not predictive--people who study the game know that.
Ehlers-Sounded like he is gone, but I suppose anything is possible. I just don't understand the under-utilization of a player with his net positive impact on team scoring and goal differential. It's the hockey equivalent of constructive dismissal and is one of many puzzling utilization decisions that, frankly, has made it hard for me to cheer for the team.
Relatedly, I notice some long-time Jets HF posters have been very quiet the last few days. I respect the restraint and probably should be following that strategy myself. There is still lots of work to do in Jetsland. Winning back the fans, getting new coaches and giving opportunity to young (and veteran) players based on merit would be a good start, but, to bring it back to the guy with the most work to do in the off-season, it's a process....