Last year of cap hell. The team is at best a marginal playoff team and will not be a cup contender so time to see what younger guys will be sticking around after this year and just ride it out. Don't worry Craig we will still fill the seats as long as they are at least competing each night.
When we fall out of contention this year we will get some draft picks for Maroon, maybe Fleury, maybe Duhaime if the offer is too good to pass up. Could see some other minor pieces (bottom 6) being traded. But don't see much that will affect next year coming from this deadline.
Need to add a skilled winger for the 2nd line that will be around for a few years when we compete (perfect world we get 2 and drop Zucc to 3rd line). This lineup leaves about $3 mil to sign a UFA or for use in a trade. Anyone but our top 4 forwards (and Zucc to keep 97 happy until we get a player to make 97 forget about him) should be made available (and hopefully any NMC can be worked out).
We have enough fill in centers if Khusnutdinov needs some AHL time. Beckman, Walker, etc. will be call ups when needed.
On D - let Mermis/Chisolm and even Hunt battle for the last spot. Add another high quality top 4 D after next year when we have cap and keep whoever earns their spot.
In goal - pretty obvious, we'll see what we've got and probably add an NHL experienced goaltender in Iowa in case of injury/illness.
Billy G picked up Maroon and Bogo on the cheap and can probably do something similar if needed due to injuries or players not being ready yet.
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