I don't see expectations as too high. I still feel like the rest of the league and media don't realize how good Buffalo is/will be.

What stumped them early last season was the loss of two solid vet d-men, and then relying on 1-2 year guys to replace their minutes. Myers added to it by trying to do too much for 2-3 months and being a TO machine. The loss of Roy forced Vanek to become more involved and that turned out to be good, but at playoff time (yet again) injuries took out a few of their most important forwards. They were minus Pominville, Connolly, Hecht, and Roy (regardless of game 7), plus Leopold and Sekera for a few games each. So a 1st rd exit really masked how good they were playing.

Now the young d-men are replaced with two good-great vet players. Leino is at least an even replacement of Connolly. So no more growing pains with rookies finding their best game, and no more aging vets up front that have to save gas in the tank until March. They are replaced by skilled players like Gerbe and Ennis or Adam, not to mention a huge upgrade at back-up goalie. As long as we don't see a third playoff in a row where 3-5 quality players go out with injury, this team is right there with Washington and Boston on paper and should be an Eastern favorite.

I see Boston letting down (like all Cup winners do) and Buffalo rocketing up to 1st and a 2nd seed overall....maybe 1st.