I haven't checked back over too much of the Genesis league last year, but I know that out of all the guys I have had the opportunity to play against, both online and off, some of the best were with teams that had stats and ratings which were just ass.
In some ways I think you can become a better player more quickly by using teams that don't have the fastest skaters, or the best goaltenders. It forces you to play a bit smarter and in the end I think it might pay off.
So if someone decides to put up a first choice other than Dallas, Detroit, Boston etc. I will cheer for you. You are awesome and you are a hero. Ratings have far less to do with the outcome then the way you manage your team on the ice, and the technique you have.