I get you’re a Sens fan so you probably don’t know much about the Jacobs family but to sum it up the best way possible they would rather be an 8 seed for a decade than spend 4-5 years rebuilding and then compete for the remaining 4-5 seasons
I don’t agree with that philosophy but if the front office could consistently draft solid players at a decent rate they wouldn’t be in this situation

they are far too good to rebuild. not happening

Mid for the next 8 years I’m afraid

they'll be good enough for the playoffs this year, then will sign a big-ticket C next year. A few prospects will step into 3rd line rolls and they'll be back as one of the best teams in the league. I'm not worried. Their core is still better than most of the league's

Playoff teams don't usually get disassembled

They won't (only) need 3rd liners though. 1C, 1LW, top6 forward, maybe another top4 D. Also need Lindholm to remain a top D which is not guaranteed and the few good prospects they have to hit.

Yea I was off on one top-6 F. I did say they would likely sign a #1C next year and I think the re-sign Debrusk. Gives you a top-6 of Marchy, Pasta, FA 1C, Debrusk, Zacha and probably Merkulov/Lysell. Maybe Geekie really impresses?

Lindholm has been excellent since he's gotten to Boston, not sure there's much that has shown he'll take a significant step back next season. Small one? Maybe, just because his play was so elite last year. I still consider him a top 15-20 guy in the league. You can find pieces to fit in a dcore with Lindholm, Mcavoy and Carlo; it will still be one of the stronger units in the league. Guessing we see Lohrei a good bit in two years.

I completely agree! What people forget is the ‘Monty’ factor. One year coaching this team and took them to the best record ever in the NHL. The playoff failure is stuck in his craw and he’s gonna get the best out of his squad AGAIN and exceed expectations. Then he’s gonna learn from his mistakes and make a statement in the playoffs. And with a little help from Sweeney at the TDL, they’ll get a some depth (maybe even bring Bertuzzi back again if the Leafs collapse LOL) and make a heavy push! People have been reminding Bruins fans how bad their prospect pool is SO MUCH, that there’s bound to be a surprise or two from some of them as well this season.

I understand your doubts but if Lohrei and Lysell become Top 4 and Top 6 players all we really need is a Top 6 center

Those are ifs that are not done yet although let's say they develop well. They would still need Zacha to become a real 2C which he isn't yet and a top line winger as Marchand will regress/retire soon.