Lindy Ruff has a tough job.
And no, I'm not talking about finding replacements for six skilled forwards.
It goes deeper than that.
Ruff has been handed an enigmatic ice puzzle and been told to fit the pieces together before they melt. Figure out these eight defensemen, help make each individual better while getting the group to bond, and, oh yeah, get off to a fast start on the season. Juggle two goalies who look lost at times, and aid each in finding that elusive happy place that lurks somewhere deep inside the men who don the tools of ignorance.