Just imagine, if you will, what the Winnipeg Jets would have looked like without Connor Hellebuyck, Mark Scheifele, Patrik Laine, Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, Josh Morrissey, Jacob Trouba, Adam Lowry and Andrew Copp in their lineup over the past couple seasons.
Not a pretty picture, is it?
What's notable about all of the above players is they are homegrown, drafted and developed talents. Not a free-agent signing or trade addition to be found among them. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and his staff identified them as potential difference-makers, and they've all paid off, forming a key part of the core while also setting the stage for future, sustained success.