Optimal Lines

id keep the top 6......and the 4th line could be like a 2nd 3rd line......

This is right. The Caps are one of the top scoring teams in the league, so you don't want to mess with that too much. Hags as a permanent fixture at 4LW is all that needs to be changed. Probably Dowd at center, and preferably Jaskin at RW, but you can rotate him, Boyd, and Stephenson there if necessary. If I'm HCTR, I want 2/3 of that fourth line to be locked in the rest of the season. Let the RW be the proving grounds.

Looks like you are over the cap. Another move? or just one of the 3 scratches to the minors?

I honestly think, based on some Kettler conversations with guys who work and talk with folks, this was done for three reasons.

1) Djoos durability is very much in question and they want him rested and ready to go for a deep playoff run.

2) BM and TR are worried about Niskanen's game. He's getting too many minutes and he's a bit worn out. They obviously don't want to replace him, but someone needs to help me ease the load. Bowey was absolutely not capable and Carlson is already taking on a ton of minute and assignment responsibilities.

3) Caps defense in general have been inconsistent with puck possession and that needed to change. And quick.

Jensen has been coveted for a few weeks and BM did not want to get into a bidding war on Monday. Bowey has value, but not on a contender who's window is now.

Jensen is getting a ton of minutes because he's the best possession dman Detroit has. He is not offensively gifted, but he can help move the puck out effectively.

Djoos will rest, Niskanen's load instantly eased, and Caps get a very good possession dman. BM really nailed this.

Well said. I hope, as yo pointed out, that Jensen gets some of Niskanen's minutes as he is wearing down. That would be huge.