Quoting: JoeROFLCOPTER
I agree -- I just don't think a trade is feasible.
I do disagree that he is a proven 40G scorer.
He did it twice with one of the best playmakers in the league; if he requires that caliber of a player to feed him pucks, then he's not a 40G scorer.
Maybe he rebounds this year; I think that's Ottawa's best bet or else they'll have to sell low -- GMs are probably asking the same question of "is he a 40G scorer or is he like a 30G scorer that was elevated by Patrick Kane?"
I don't think he was elevated by Patrick Kane (look at Patrick Kane without Dcat he sucks) he is a very very good player and you can tell watching him play, there's multiple reasons as to why he didn't score as much this year but I don't feel like typing all of it so im just going to say keep it brief:
1. New team, New city, first trade, new baby.
2. #1 centre hurt (Norris) so Rookie pinto had to step up and struggled.
3. DJ Smith's structure was very bad for the style of hockey DCat play's. (which is why every sens fan wants him out)
4. less opportunities and TOI with ottawa. DCat and Kane were always on the ice for each PP and Ozone draw ( he also played the full 2mins of PP). This isn't the case here in ottawa because of internal competition.
5. Just very unlucky You don't have to count this one but I've never seen anyone hit so many posts in a season before and im not kidding guys had to cheer him up with all the posts he was hitting this past season.
I 100% Believe he will score more goals next season if he gets to play with Norris or stutzle. (if he stays in ottawa)
I also think keeping him for 1 year and trading him at the TDL for a better return would be the best Idea.