Laviolette seemed to really like Watson when he was in NSH, so I could see them targeting him for that reason.

This post just got Tom Wilson suspended.

I don't understand...

I get the salary cap logic. Probably a logical move, especially if the coach trusts the guy to have his life under control. But if you put two tough guys with reputations on the same team, it seems possible that referees will be, what's the phrase this week... "looking for a ____ penalty against" Washington?

eta: Riat is having a great year in the AHL. Just got called up. Given that Panik is usually better than Watson, and Watson has had some issues, I'm pretty sure Ottawa takes this deal, even without Riat involved. WSH probably throws in a 4th for the future cap space and takes back the 1M to 1.5M cap dump of Ottawa's choice this year.

lol
Hey, but what about this, AW could take over that role so Tom can stay out of trouble? Huh?

I dont think OTT accepts this.

Their production is the same (if not better for Watson), and Watson is nearly 1.25M cheaper.

Riat doesnt move the needle. Not likely an NHL player. WSH has to add.

Caps pass. Panik is way better than Watson. If your point is they need to make room for next season than fine, but they can do that in the summer, not now.

He's out for the next 4-6 weeks so might not be able to help you until the playoffs.

Either way I'd actually prefer to keep Watson for his contract. He's gotta be one of the better 4th liners in the league. Just knows his role and excels at it. Hits and blocks anything in sight. Stands up for his teammates no matter what. And isn't a liability, like the majority of Dorions summer acquisitions.

Yes it was my point. Thanks.

The kids in Hershey (Riat included) are really starting to take off this year. I don't know if adding I higher tiered player to just switch a 3rd liner with a 4 liner is warranted.

I mean the statline and what I am reading doesnt support what youre saying. OTT doesnt want any players in this transaction, but picks.

OTT is willing to let you get the marginally better player, and save 1.25M, but you need to give something to make it worth Melnyks while. Otherwise OTT is very happy to keep Watson, and Panik doesnt excite us at all.

What about taking a retained Anisimov? Does that add value for Ott? If Watson is out until the playoffs, Watson for Panik gives WSH space to take a 2M salary dump from Ottawa. Probably also needs a 5th round pick?