solid trade for OTT! That first could turn out to be a top 15 pick in a very deep draft class!

Especially if Duchene signs back with Ottawa or he re-signs with Columbus and Bob and Panarin leave

what pick is gonna be a top 15? Columbus is likely to make the playoffs this year and if he resigns with them and Ottawa gets next years pick they are still likely to make the playoffs.

I think both sides like the trade. I would like to see some conditions put on picks that if Duchene were to resign with Ottawa that the 1st becomes a lower pick.

This year is top 3 protected. So, if they somehow win the lottery, does that mean Ottawa would get 2020 and 2021 if Duchene re-signs?

duchene is not signing back in Ottawa. Eugene wont pay what he is worth, especially when he will have his chance to sign with anyone who he wants and will pay him his worth July 1st. He will sign with the Preds if he hits the open market. Bank on it

Well, considering the standings and the way teams ahead of CLB are playing, there is certainly a chance for them to miss the playoffs...
Atlantic:
TB
BOS
TOR

Metro:
NYI
WAS
PIT

Wild cards
MTL
CAR

In my opinion, MTL are almost sure to be in the playoffs (the vibe around this team is too great) and it seems like CAR just past the superior level... The only team that I could see replaced by CLB is PIT, but with the 87 and the 71, it's hard to believe

Even if they are in the playoffs, the first is more likely going to be a top 20 pick, which is still really great!