I’d go:
Tkachuk-Norris-Joseph
Debrincat-Stutzle-Giroux

Phil the thrill would actually be a pretty decent add to replace some of that offense. He couldn't score to save his soul last year, but he still put up 50pts on a bad team. Who knows how much he still has in the tank but he's definitely still a productive offensive player, and injuries aren't a concern at all. Certainly doesn't hurt to have someone who knows what it takes to win either, even if he is admittedly pretty weird.

I have a lot of faith in Pinto. Sokolov still has not proven that he is NHL ready. If he is not, PD might be making a quick call to Ennis.
I cannot say that I like their chances without Drake and Alex.

He seems like the type of player to be hyped up and finish with 17 points in 78 games.

That being said a cheap one-year deal would certainly make sense.

Idk about 17 points, or that he'd even be gettingthat hyped up. You aren't bringing him in to be a star, or even an every day top 6 guy depending on Joseph and Greig's play. Still think he adds more value than just about anyone they might find as a replacement, and for Batherson at least you have to bring in someone. I think Greig can replace Formenton, but next man up isn't gonna cut it with Batherson.

My ideal was betting on Nicolas Roy, but he just extended with Vegas so I doubt he'll be moved. Sonny Milano is an option too, but my guess is he's already signed one of Lou's dumb secret deals nobody is allowed to know about til September. Idk who Else is even going to be available.

Guilty in eyes of public opinion?

There is no criminal case that could assign guilt and the only civil case has already been settled out of court (thus no cross examination, no discovery process).

I would just proceed as if they are going to play.

Obviously, forget I said anything if they did it. Still, though, a lot of people seem to forget that our system is innocent until proven guilty. Lots of speculation going around, and we don’t want to be assigning blame to innocent parties.

Always presume innocence.
Always ask for due process. For both sides.
Our system, our way of life, depend on it.

Sonny Milano, Zach aston reese, and Evan Rodrigues are FAs that could be brought in to fill a third line role