I believe they are better because;
1) they will be better defensively
2) UPL will have a shorter leash, and
3) They have plenty of offense, especially if they figure the power play out. They were one of the better 5 on 5 teams, albeit with a high shooting percentage. I think Quinn, Benson, Doan, Kulich, McLeod and Danforth will outscore last years numbers of JJP, Quinn, Benson, Kulich, McLeod and Lafferty
All that said, I still want Bryan signed and another top 6 forward (Rust?) brought in.