Gillis was using draft capital to try and win the Cup. His era was far different from Benning, who used draft capital in hopes to make the playoffs. Gillis was our best ever GM, and it's not that close, considering the success of his clubs.
The new management seems a lot more aligned with Gillis in that they have a core in place and are smart. So hopes are high they can be as good as him and we will have a great team again soon.