I think they'll be better.
We've played them in 2 cup ties twice in a year and, whilst they've been only 1 game in each season and with varying squads, you just had that feeling they could/would be well prepared if/when they get promoted. I might have downplayed their recruitment in the past but they've nailed it recently. It's probably better than a lot of Premier League clubs given the division they're in. Maupay, Watkins and now Toney - they know how to find a goalscorer and that'll serve them well if they get promoted this season. You get the feeling they're ready. They've come close last couple of seasons and like you say with Brighton, maybe that'll serve them well for when they do actually get promoted.