What do they do Next year

If kuzmenko ends up only costing 6million per for 4 years he's probably just going to re-sign with the canucks at that much money. You will either need to offer more term or a higher AAV.

He may like Vancouver but why would he want to stay there, I had high hopes for them but they are gonna be losing Horvat, they don't have a good cap situation (OEL) and don't seem anywhere near close to being cup contenders

I think he just likes the city and he did choose them this summer so there is that. I would say the canucks would sign him at 6 million per for 4 years because he is only 26 ATM he is a versatile player playing up and down our lineup. To get him to move on from Vancouver I would say longer term like 5-6 years might work or give him 6.5 or 7 but that depends on how he ends the season.

Like your analysis. Looks like the Devils may want to upgrade at LHD....maybe a short term vet, and get a RHD if Nemec isn't ready.

THIS YEAR
I think they add a few pcs for playoffs this year (JVR), maybe Reimer as a backup, I have no confidence in MB. Schenn as a defender if we look like we are solidly in the PO's

NEXT YEAR
-Wood wants to stay but gets offered more cash, probably by Buf and leaves.
-Both defenders are sent to FA, I don't agree with this right now because we don't look like young guys can grab the reins just yet.
-Timo fits a need, but it's a summer deal. I cant see it being both Holtz and our 1st etc, but a very good qty pkg (yeah I know SJ fans its not enough for you)
-SJ has to do a rebuild and Timo's timing is off on that, so he is moved. Is it this TDL as a rental elsewhere? Maybe. Then a FA for us.
-I think we need a heavy top 9 forward, who can skate, heavy board play, stick up for team. I hope its Comtois on the cheap, and in fact another big body like Marchment.
-I think they trade Blackwood's right or straight out let him go. Schmid proved he can play, another half yr probably get him there.
-Tatar Johnsson are let go.
-Bratt signs a deal before the season ends, and its enough to allow for a Timo-like signing. Kuz is too much at $6M
-The D is very interesting. I don't think adding two rooks is smart, Smith signing is smart in that regard.
-Walsh is moved, maybe in that Timo pkg. Could also include other pcs like Bahl and Ohotiuk, Boquist at C (Thompson replaces him)
-Depending on if the ask is still crazy Chychrun should not be dismissed.
-We need to add Cs to the prospect pool and RH wingers
-Does McCleod have legal issues, that changes stuff
Thats the big stuff