Barkov was 23, Ekblad was 23
They had less points because they played 13 less games (covid)
They were a marginal team (not making the playoffs) and when he was dismissed they were one of the top contenders in the league.
No one said it resembled this years Blackhawks team, that wasn't the criteria. You said a "marginal team" and the Panthers were exactly that.
And to add, the Toews Kane Blackhawks were a young marginal team when he became the coach. (Hadn't made the playoffs in 5 years, youngest team in the league). But go ahead, move the goalposts.