Here are my proposals and expected returns for for NYR 2020 TDL and this upcoming offseason. This is different from what I expect to happen in reality (NYR only trading Kredier, maybe Georgiev as well).
I have provided the descriptions for Parts I and II in both links:
Trading Kreider: Historically, valuable wingers that average under a point per game receive around this return at the deadline (typically a 2nd and 3rd rounder in consecutive years). Instead of the third rounder, I added a contract STL would not need any longer and may wish to get off the books, along with a performing prospect. I know that "insiders" have predicted a first rounder for Kreider, but I think GMs see how deep this upcoming draft pool is, and restrain from sacrificing their first rounder for a rental (some GMs refrained from trading for Hall because the price was a first rounder +). STL is merely an example; other teams include BOS, COL, CAL, MTL, PIT, TB, EDM and possibly NSH.
Trading Deangelo: Some VGK fans said they would not be interested, but I still see a fit. Trading for a defenseman who is on pace for around 60 points this season, while acquiring his signing rights and extending him, allows VGK to strengthen its chance at a cup this year, have a very good top 4 defense for the next couple of years, and still have a plethora of picks. NYR should be able to sell Tony for a high but fair price (puck moving, right handed shot defensemen are hard to come by, which inflates his value), and promote Fox to Deangelo's role. VGK is merely an example; other teams include TOR, DAL, VAN and WPG.
Trading Strome: Strome is 26 and a pending RFA, which most likely means if he does not receive a long-term contract with the money he thinks he deserves, he will opt to sign a 1-year deal and walk into UFA the following offseason. If prudent, NYR would sell high on Strome. I believe teams will see Strome's production as an anomaly, due to him playing frequently with Panarin. Therefore, NYR should be offered 2nd and 3rd round picks, an offer NYR should accept. CAL is merely an example; other possible teams include WPG, MTL, CAR, PIT, and possibly SJS.
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2020 Offseason:
NYR are still another season away from truly competing. The team still needs to develop its youth, and bring in more young prospects (most notably Vitali Kravstov). The biggest decision for NYR will be goaltending. Many argue that NYR have little choice but to move Georgiev in order to make room for Shesterkin. However, if NYR were able to juggle 3 goaltenders next season, NYR would able to retain both Georgiev and Shesterkin the following season, which would give the team one of the best young goalie tandems in the league. It will not be easy, but it would be worthwhile (barring an incredible offer for Georgiev).
The 2020 UFA market is not very enticing outside of Taylor Hall. NYR should opt to sign veterans that fit their short term needs. First, NYR will need a right handed center/winger that can replace the likes of Ryan Strome. I believe the best option on the market would be Craig Smith, who can shoot the puck pretty well and play a physical game (and can likely play at any forward position). A short term deal should solve their top 9 LW hole for the short term. Other options include Wayne Simmonds or Ryan Reaves (though Smith is by far the best option).
Second, NYR should look for a bottom 4 pairing defensive defenseman. There seems to be a few options out there. The best two options in my mind would be Justin Braun and Radko Gudas. Both have solid shot suppression numbers, have been in winning locker rooms, and are big physical guys on the back end. A 1-2 year deal for either one of them would really help NYR on defense, which is their biggest problem.
Finally, after acquiring more picks on the deadline for Kreider, Strome, and Deangelo, NYR should look to trade up in the 2020 draft whenever possible. Some teams are missing 2nd and third round picks (for example CBJ and DAL). If NYR were to acquire the VGK first, it could move up in the first round and provide 2nd and 3rd round picks to teams with subpar farm systems.
These are simply recommendations and predictions based off said recommendations as of the published date. There are obviously other moves NYR fans wish the team could do (trading Smith and Staal), but I try to temper expectations. Happy to hear other thoughts from everyone and anyone.
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