Here's a quick recap for those interested in what some outside media (the show broadcasts from Toronto) have to say about the Sharks, looking back at last season, and ahead to this season.

The Five Burning Questions:

1. How different will the Sharks be under Todd McLellan?

- Whether they can mimic Detroit's system depends on if they have the horses; questioned if the team is built that way. Good to hire an offensive-minded guy, as team did not look like they were having fun in a confining defense-first system. If McLellan takes the leash off, the Sharks can be an aggressive, fun team to watch again, showing off their talent.

2. How much improved is the blueline with the additions of Blake and Boyle?

- The hosts agree that the D corps has NOT improved, questioning Boyle's play in his own zone (not impressive last year), and Blake's durability over the course of the season. One host would rather have Campbell & Rivet over B&B. Lukowich not mentioned, nor the progression of the youngsters.

3. Has Doug Wilson paid too big a price to put this team together?

- One host (Boomer) had an emphatic "yes" to this question. Pointed out the cap situation, and how past trades have bled away so many draft picks and prospects, which had been the strength of the organization in the past. Team does not have flexibility to make any more moves this season. The other host says this is "on hold" - you can never pay too big a price if you win it all. If not, the time to rebuild will be sooner rather than later.

4. Do we expect Cheechoo, Marleau, Michalek, etc. to increase their offense this year?

- The hosts were non-committal, pointing out the past struggles instead. Both agreed that these three players need to play up to their potential, and expect Clowe, Pavelski and Setoguchi to be more productive as well.

5. Is this the year?

- Both hosts stated the disappointing Sharks teams of the past who failed to meet expectations. As such, they cannot count on the team to win the Cup this year.

Bonus: Do we endure another year of the Marleau rumors?

- Of course - unless the Patty and the team get off to a HOT start. They seemed to discount the NTC rather easily.

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So, the consensus was that while the Sharks have a lot of talent, this is definitely they year that they have to prove themselves. A more offensive system may help the forwards be more productive, but the blueline is a bigger question mark now.

A fair appraisal, though nothing new to us - just interesting to hear the viewpoints from the national media.

AOR