I wouldn't judge Cole solely on his series against Edmonton (which admittedly, was one of the worst combinations of brain cramps combined with bad luck that I've ever seen a player go through). He lacerated his ankle in Game 1 of Round 2 and could barely get his skate into his boot, and tried to soldier through.
That said - as bad as he was in Round 2, he was vital in Round 1 against Nashville and a big part of our PK. The biggest reason for Vancouver's turnaround last year was the changes on the back end, and Cole was a big part of that. He's a solid veteran, well liked in the locker room, blocks shots, kills penalties, and brings some physicality and grit. He can move up a pair in spot injury relief, but he definitely needs to be load managed over the course of a season.
If Utah can do that, you'll have a solid role player on your hands.