This is a reasonably believable set of moves. I've always thought that while Garth's departure was needed and inevitable, he never really set the team back that much. Andrew Ladd's contract aside.

Lou will have this team moving in short order. Unlike Toronto though, they have a narrower window due to the aging crew.

Yeah the Howard trade is a big no for me. The wings don't have anybody who is capable of being a starter on their roster. It's Howard, a lifelong AHL'er, a 23 yo Czech we just signed, and a bunch of 19 year olds. Plus if you think the Wings are bad with Howard imagine how bad they'll be without him. Reimer, Neuvirth, Grubauer, and Lehner are other options to consider.