The defense was a weak link pre trade-deadline so that is a big part of it. Tanev has helped significantly but let's not pretend we are 'elite' there. After the NJ debacle in March, Otter gave up 2 or less goals in 10/11 games to end the season (not counting the empty netter against the Jets). The Jets game was the only loss (we won at Col 7-4). That level of play got us the 1 seed. We almost certainly would have finished 3rd in the division with average goalie play down the stretch. So I agree with your bottom line but we frankly need better play out of anyone to win this series and every series hereafter. I guess I have equal concerns about top line play, defense and goalie right now.
It's kind of bullshit we can't ease into the playoffs against the Kings which i think would have gone 5 at worst. Our side of the bracket, in my view, has 4 of the top 5 teams in the West, but it is what it is. I think very likely this suddenly healthy Vegas team makes it out of the other side of the bracket had Chicago not choked last Thursday so from that perspective, I think better to get them now. But need to pick our play up significantly starting tonight or this run will be over quickly.