Horse before the cart; If Marner flakes out in the playoffs and doesn't build on the good work this year, then the conversation should be moot after the fact.
I like the idea of an injection of new blood if Rantanen and Bennett are serious options.
I think the new blood this year has proven that, and ironically, in the improved play of Marner...more of a return to form I'd argue.
Again: Without success in the playoffs, even if its by the eye test alone...There is no reason beyond peculiar nostalgia where anyone argues: No, no, no, now with this top 3 contract in the league, the outcome will be different.
I don't think it's a stretch to say we're "there" as a fanbase.
Happy to be surprised, but I'm focused on July 1st 2025 in a way I can't remember being as forward looking in the past.