I think we'd get just as much value out of using our prospects on the third and fourth line right wings. True and Chekhovich or something. I'd much rather see a young guy play then Smith-Pelly (who is quite slow) and why the heck is Goodrow scrathched? Also Ryan was not qualified, he is UFA. This is neither realistic nor ideal.

If the rumors are true, Donskoi is going to get more than that.

DeMelo was also not qualified last year then proceeded to sign with San Jose. Sure, he was traded in a package deal for EK65, but the point is that Doug Wilson didn't want his hands tied if an arbitration with Ryan would lead him to needing to be signed to a contract upwards of 950K. This way Ryan tests the market, once he sees there's no crazy bidders for over 1mil, he'll resign with SJ on a 875K deal to anchor that 3rd pairing with Heed.

I like Smith-Pelly, think he's the type of physical guy you need on your roster if you're planning on going through the western conference in the playoffs en route to the cup since he has good skill and a goal scoring touch. He doesn't need to be fast in that role, but on most nights, Goodrow likely takes his place to center Gambrell and Patty. This is both realistic and ideal.

It'll be interesting to see if SJ offers a deal for him. He's keen on staying in SJ (he really loves the Bay Area), but to what extent? I think as long as he doesn't get offer upwards of 3-3.1mil, he resigns with SJ if they offer somewhere between 2.8-2.9, as long as the term is for a minimum of 3-4yrs.

Smith pelly had 8 points last year. That is not a scoring touch I am sorry. We would be much better off with True on the fourth line and I think he would put up 3x as many points.

It's been a forgone conclusion for a while now that Middleton would be the 7th defenseman on the roster next year so you're going to need to be more crafty with that Dillon trade and get a cheaper defenseman back.

Not to mention that Ryan isn't very good at hockey. DeSimone deserves a look over him as well as Middleton.

I know Sharks fans want Marleau back but it's just another old guy taking a spot from a young guy who is ready to prove themselves..It's a bad idea in more ways than one.

Why would the Rangers give 2 second round picks for a defenseman 1 year away from UFA when they 9 defensemen on the roster. They are trying to get rid of some.