I'm buying that they're a WC contender. They've been competitive in all 7 games so far. They have good goaltending. Nazar is turning into a real two-way gem. Bedard is playing with more confidence than he ever has. They're playing with heart. The Hawks are as good as the Kings or Blues, both playoff teams last season.
I think they ultimately miss, but they show that they are surely playoff contenders next season. Utah will get in this season. Blues will miss.