The best thing is that Lou didn't sign another bad contract, so I'm content with the offseason. Put the young players in a position to succeed and go from there.

Romanov isn't exactly a puck mover. Erasing a 45 and 39 year old from the backend doesn't earn any awards either. This team needed a boost up front and Lou failed to do that. Basically putting the blame on Barry with the moves he made. Offseason is a failure IMO

My boy you need to watch Romanov play. Puck mover is the last thing I would call him. Which is fine, he probably plays with Dobson no? He will handle the puck movement.

Interesting i disagree with just about everything you wrote.
Lou got much younger between romanov in for chara and salo or aho in for greene as lou said that 6d will come internally, he shaved off about 40 years just from those 2 spots. Essentially confirming that it was trotz who insisted on playing the vets.
He did strike out on gaudreau though im glad he didnt sign kadri. Im also glad he didnt move a 1st to move bailey as that wouldve been poor asset management. Romanovs play style should fit really well with dobsons.
Was hoping for a varly trade as well but if theres nothing to use the cap for it doesnt make sense and spending for the sake of spending is a mistake.
The romanov and dobson deals were well negotiated and though i think he overpaid bellows, it does signify his intent to give him a consistent look in the top 9 which he hasnt really gotten. Im hoping wahly and bellows and salo are able to excel now that trotz is gone, and i think there will be a much better balance of youth and experience as well as accountability for everyone regardless of age.
I disagree that the focus shouldve been on acquiring more middle 6 guys as it is we already have too many. We need high end players or no players. Getting more middle 6ers is just a waste of cap.
I personally would give lou a B+ for the offseason. He didnt get that winger but aside from that accomplished everything else. He also showed his commitment to the youth and kept the future bright which is something i was worried about given his age. This team has a real shot to make the playoffs and if they do they could win a round or two.