Quoting: perrystreett
I think Backstrom is done for good. If not, I think he is at least out all of next season. I would prefer them to find a long term 2C and worry about Backy coming back when/if it happens.
For center, I think the Caps need a bonafide 2c, I would want PLD or Miller.
For a top 6 winger I would want forsberg or nichushkin, even though both seem unrealistic.
Husso or Kuemper for goalie, my preference would be Husso and Sammy.
I think they leave the D as is. Johansen can start the season and then he and Alexeyev can compete when he is healthy. Maybe add a vet near the minimum.
Quoting: vikhodush
If he comes back I think that’s a playoff comeback but I’d bet he’s done done.
And like Perry said - worry about it if he comes back later given the low likelihood of it.
Quoting: qc14
I think even in this scenario they take the ~ 8.5m you spent on Gagner, mojo, mikheyev, and left empty and package it for one big splash forward. I would prefer someone who can play center like miller, but even if its a top winger like Nichuskin or FF I think it makes sense to get fewer more high end guys rather than a bunch of depth pieces. Their depth isn't really the problem -- its star power in the top 6 beyond ovi
Certainly agree with all your points. I believe he is done as well. This team was put together SOLELY under the thought of Backy coming back mid season. Do I think that happens...no. But just playing around with the idea.
2c: I would go with Miller / PLD depending on price. I really really like Trocheck - I think he would fit great with the Caps style of play.
Forward: Nichushkin or FF would be great, but I have a feeling they will be too high in price. That is why I went with Ilya as a 2 way versatile forward.
Goalie: this is a tough one for me. Keumper would be great, Husso is a question mark to me, Varly would be fine, Gibson would be fine (depending on price), Lehner would be fine (depending on price)