Quoting: pensfan21
We need someone more mobile on D. Zucker Barbashev and Bertuzzi all have similar traits. Anthanasiou I think is very important cause we need speed. So one of those three I would replace with a D. Bertuzzi I'd say is best of the 3 so I'd keep him. My D ideally would look like this. Just need someone who can move the puck better. And as a luxury wouldn't hurt to have someone like Gudas either.
Pettersson-Letang
xxx-Smith
xxx-Petry
That's how I'd go into the offseason looking at our D. Some combo like Orlov and Gudas for the last 2 would be perfect. I'm choosing Smith over POJ, think his upside is higher. Our D was just a mess last year, too slow, no net front presence, awful D zone coverage, constant awful pinches.
I know Smith can play the right side, but I don't think Sully is a big fan of having Dmen on their off hand, which is why I think he's fit more for the 3rd line.
The bigger issue on D was inconsistency with who was on the ice. Letang, Petry, Petterson, Rutta all missed games. I know injuries happen, but that's 3 top 4men and a 3rd pairing guy all missing significant time.
Orlov is going to cost a pretty penny so I don't believe they'll be able to go after him.
Petts-Letang
POJ-Petry
Smith-Gudas
would be my ideal pairing going into next year considering Gudas is an FA and he's the only one to acquire. Could probably sign him if you can convince Carter to waive his no trade clause lol