1) We are but two years removed from being the last placed team in the NHL.
2) No matter how good AM is he cannot overcome the deficiencies this team has.
3) We are a team that was rebuilding on an Offensive mandate moreso than a Defensive mandate, and this shows.
4) Our D players are essentially the same as they were two years ago. I say essentially, because while those who have been changed may have better skills than those who were here two years ago, they are younger and have been unable to adjust to the demands of the league at this time and those who are veterans tend to be older and losing a step or two in the race to adequacy.
5) We are saddled with some of the most inept forwards in the league when it comes to D responsibilities.
6) Whether by choice or response, we have not been able to trade/rid ourselves of those forwards who habitually display terrible defensive play.
7) We have a young team. Many think we are contenders for the Cup. Yes, magic can happen, but really, if we were to continue at our current pace, would anyone, could anyone, complain? I think not. However, our weakness may not stand up to the scrutiny of the playoffs. A round or two, maybe, might be achievable, but we are not a sound defensive team. We've not had enough time to grown as a unit, and our weaknesses are apparent to all. Those weaknesses will be exploited.
8) As a fan base we demand so much more of this team than it can realistically offer. Whether it is Bozak, JVR, Polak, Carrick, Hyman, what have you, our base expects the best from this team every single night! Sheer lunacy. And then they complain about the coach who has more experience and success with teams than any coach we've had in years. It boggles the mind. In essence, chill! Today's team isn't tomorrow's, or next year's, we don't know what management desires or who they see as fitting into the organizational philosophy. It's tough, we all want to enjoy the drive, but sometimes, if you don't know the roads you just have to go along for the ride as opposed to criticizing the route and the driver.