Why are the Bruins on his list then?

I am not sure physicality is what Tavares is concerned about. I would also say their secondary scoring and Defense was their downfall, but they are super young - Donato, Heinen, Debrusk and Bjork should all get better. They were also without Carlo which was sneaky important because it slotted everyone incorrectly. Also, a very good tampa team was their downfall. Tavares probably thinks he can elevate them.

Although I think the Isles may have the upper hand, I think Bergeron, Marchand, and Pastrnak's contracts help the Bruins chances more than people may think. I am guessing their major selling point will be that they will be able to move players (Backes & krejci) to sign their young talent and their 3 best players are all signed for under 7m. That is huge. It means they can bring in talent, or pay to keep talent around.

What was San Jose's downfall? Tampa, what about them? Toronto (they were beat by Bruins - GASP) Dallas they didn't even make the playoffs (& Seguin is UFA Next year)? Isles what has been their downfall.