Playing devil's advocate for a second, I can see where some of the creeping concern is coming from.
Zibanejad, though not nearly the player he is now, put up 20 points in 42 games as a 19 year old, and was contributing at the NHL level all the way up to a 20 goal/45 point campaign as 22 year old and a 21 goal, 51 point campaign as a 23 year old.
I think people will feel a little calmer if they can see a couple of guys from a group that includes Howden, Andersson or Chytil maybe net 15 goals and 30 points. Additionally, having ADA cement his place, or Lemieux take next steps will go a long way. I don't think anyone has to be a world beater, but this definitely a season where people will be expecting "something" from some of these guys.
I think Chytil being in the AHL has people spooked a little right now, because he's the prime example of someone who was expected to start with the club and at least see some modest gains from last season. Obviously, there is still plenty of time for that and I'm optimistic. But I can see where the current situation doesn't really help ease the tension.