Absolutely loaded for bear. Legit contender. Perhaps the deepest top 9 in the NHL. That 3rd line could be a 2nd on most NHL teams.
Signings:
Little Joe: still a highly effective top 6 player. No reason not to have that presence in the room.
Tanev: word is Nill wants to extend him. Excellent 2nd pairing addition provided he remains healthy. Term should allow for the proper development of Kyrou and Bichsel. Forms a formidable shut down pair with Lindell.
Steel: a very underrated bottom 6 forward with a very sound defensive game for his age. Resigned as the long term replacement for Faska. Has fit in very well as a Star.
Greer: an effective physical 4th line presence. 14th forward.
Jones: his play this year has proven he has something left in the tank. Have to think a league minimum deal for real chance to win a Championship is something he considers. Able to play 20-25 games.
Reilly: a 7th D who is completely capable. Similar game to Hanley, who as a 7th D was fabulous.
Dellandrea: a down year for sure, but still far to young to let go. Can play up the lineup if he finds his game.
Side Notes:
1. Stankoven: simply a beast. Arguement to be had he plays on the 2nd line, but for development purposes, some sheltered 3rd line minutes make sense. Stars have options with him.
2. Bourque: hard not to see him making the team. 3C, sheltered minutes. Having him play with Stankoven has the pair was dominant in the AHL. Need to see if that translates.
3. Delleadrea: as said above, a down year. And given the Stars depth, pencils in on the 4th line. Need to find him some playing time beyond that to see what he can be. That will be a challenge. Talent is there, and too young to just let go.
Overall: a team that can win a Cup. Look to have a defined young core that means they are going to be relevant for a while. If Stankoven cam continue to grow his game and Bourque comes in and is simply productive look out. Will score at will..... and can defend too. Simply one of the best teams in the NHL.
McDavid, Connor
250 000 $)
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