You're probably correct but reaching a greater points total isn't, and maybe shouldn't be their main goal for the season. #1 is probably creating an environment that helps everyone to deal with the grief, and #2 imo is supporting future core players' development by surrounding them with right type of veterans (not "star" players necessarily, a modern day Jason Chimera could be a great fit if available).
Aiming for goals #1 and #2 might lead to Jackets finishing higher in the standings than last year but my point is it's a secondary concern.
Sorry for this post
My point is pressure (internal personal pressure) on the young guys to produce goals with no safety net. The high scorers were Jenner and Marchy both in the low 20's of goals. That was with Johnny and now it falls on them and continually losing wears on players. My point is when they are ready to ascend, I don't want them to leave for more help already on other teams and cup chase. Then the CBJ is back starting to draft and develop again for other NHL Teams (farm club). This has been the way for the CBJ.
While #1 & #2 is ideal and part of it there has to be some growth and not just a throwaway season (which is the feeling). So points do matter for growth and hope for both players and fans.
Losing Johnny hurts not only on a personal front but allowed freedom for younger guys to find their way and not have to be the man. So doesn't have to be a Mitch Marner type but someone, who is a good teammate and can take up some of the slack. Can't just be Marchy, Jenner and Monahan, but again I don't see that happening this season. I think we will be better structurally and defensively but goal scoring will be way down = wins = points.
Again not being sky is falling but may be change it up and adopt more of a Vegas/Florida approach draft picks for players because JVR and possibly Kessel really doesn't even keep this team afloat. What does another top 5 pick garner the CBJ??? Another wait 1-2 years or so until this person arrive and another 1 -2 years before they possibly produce??
Look this is just a dietribe of my thoughts, while the Johnny Guadreau loss has sapped any of my passion for hockey or the start of this season. I just can't see how this team takes major steps forward.