The Sharks are and should be a concern.
Erik Karlsson is that good. He dragged an average Sens team to the third round of the playoffs on a bum foot. He is the most talented defensemen the league has seen for a long long time.
I thought we were the favourite to win the Western Conference. I do not know if we could beat San Jose in a seven game series. That would be a toss up that would most likely depend on how Martin Jones plays vs Hellebuyck.
Jets do have an advantage in the sense that they are deeper and have superior forwards. Over an 82 game schedule that may be an advantage.
Karlsson's play in his own zone is not elite. If the jets could somehow keep the puck deep in San Jose's zone and hold it for long periods we might have a decent chance.
Karlsson is guy who can bring it up two levels and win a series by himself...its a scary proposition.
Then again, winning the Cup will be very hard facing Karlsson or not.
If the Jets don't win the Cup this year, a moderate re-tool may be in order. With Trouba leaving and Byfuglien making so much there will be need to be significant turnover to clear cap space for Connor, Laine and the players young enough to support the new youth core moving into their prime.. I would hope Morrissey signs and is a part of it.
In three seasons Laine will be in his prime as will Connor, Schief and Ehlers. Fingers crossed on Morrissey as well.
I would hope Vesalainien, Niku and Samberg are all contributing as well. If Trouba needs to be dealt it should be with this context in mind. If Buff , Wheeler and Little need to go to support that group I would support it 100%.
Still unsure about Wheeler's contract as I write this.