To voice an unpopular opinion.... Something is starting to worry me. With nearly every story on this blog, lately, there is talk about the Jackets position in the standings. Comments and stories about how good the team is and what they may need to do well in the playoffs. Today, I read a story on the Pro Hockey Rumors site talking about how well placed the Jackets are to make a deep playoff run, primarily because of the $18.75MM in cap space that Waddell has to play with. All good and fine, except.....

Does anybody truly believe that Elvis and Tarry are a goalie tandem for making a deep playoff run? The Ego and the Mistake are just one flub from losing their cool and going on a losing streak. Except.......

Yes, the first line is kicking arse and Fantilli is developing into the #1C he was expected to be when he was drafted. Yes, the Jackets are solid down the middle and Monahan will be back soon. But look at the middle six wingers. Sure, KJ is becoming everything Jarmo thought he could be when drafting him. But JVR as a second line winger? Matthieu Olivier as a third line winger? Trust me, the Jackets' weakness on the wings will get exposed. And then......

There's the blue line. Now, Fabbro is a very pleasant surprise and Provorov is, arguably, having the best season of his career. And what can you say about Z except, holy socks, who knew he could be this good? But after that trio, you have a rookie who may eventually be the Jackets top d-man, a role player, a washed up guy and a throw in on the deal to get rid of Laine. Does that scream deep playoff run to you?

Yes, the Jackets are the feel good story of the NHL season and, maybe, pro sports in 2024-25. Yes, they'll finish out the season strong. They may even make the playoffs. But they'll face a very strong team in the first round who will expose the Jackets' weaknesses and dispose of them.