Put me down as catiously optimistic.
Despite the all the regular season losses, the injury to a great young man in Bergeron, and the fact that the B's couldn't get out of the 1st round, last season really rejuvinated the hockey enthusiast within me.
When bergeron went down, it looked like the season would go down a similar path, but what an experience it was to watch all the young guys come together and rally late in the season to secure a playoff birth.
The bruins were not a great hockey team last year, and they really didn't have a lot of business being in the playoffs (despite the fact that nearly every team gets in), but the effort they put forth against the Canadians (after getting swept by them in the regular season) was nothing short of incredible. i went to the 1st home playoff game and the rivalry between the two teams (particularly the fans) was as good as ever - Canadians fans showed up in HUGE numbers to support their team, yet, despite the lack of support for the B's these days, Bruins fans countered throughout the day/night with loud support and unwavering enthusiasm.
With the experience gained by last years rookies, and rookie coach, this years squad should be poised for another playoff run. And let me tell you right now, if you've never been to an NHL playoff game, you're missing out on one of the best fan experiences in town. The electricity in the Garden, particulary when the Habs are in town, is just flat out incredible.