Long time reader, first time poster. Figured I'd toss around the first of (likely) many iterations of what this off-season ideally could look like for the CBJ. The main goal here is to punch up scoring, as well as acquire picks in volume.
- AZ is a team that is (a) in need of cap space, and (b) already utilizing LTIR due to the Marion Hossa contract. GMJK has already indicated Dubi's career is most likely over, so CBJ get to unload his contract and AZ gets to double down and benefit from LTIR at a low cost. I think we could get a better pick under normal circumstances, but the recent sanctions against AZ probably limit our return.
- TOR unload from a position of strength (Forward) in order to build up a weakness (D and G), and pick up a T4 D-Man, and a No.1 Goalie. CBJ retains on the Savard contract, and picks up some mid-round draft stock as a result. For my TML fans - I am curious, do you think TML would require an extension on Savard prior to trading, or is a rental (obviously with negotiation rights throughout the season) enough?
- MTL unloads Domi and picks up a solid bottom pairing D-Man with some offensive upside, as well as some big wingers in Jenner (a solid B6 Forward) and Josh (a big-bodied M6 Winger). Additionally, MTL gets to move up a round, CBJ pick up additional picks.
- Harrington gets moved to EDM in exchange for a mid-rounder. A good bottom-pairing defenseman.
- Shore gets moved to OTT. I figure the team only has 9 roster players signed for next season, and take a flyer on the guy, who could likely get an expanded role on a rebuilding team.
- CBJ pull a pick-swap with TBL to move into the 3rd.
- Vlad gets a raise and term, Domi gets a reasonable 6x6 contract, and Dubois takes a bridge deal, looking to cash in once the cap starts going up again.
- Nash gets bought out; though, if anyone thinks he can be traded for a bag of pucks, I'm all for it. I'm more or less of a coin-flip between him and Wenny, but I think a good performance in the playoffs and defensive/ PK value save Wenny here. Plus, CBJ could look to get him moved in the expansion draft. IMO, even with the low cap penalty, I think GMJK doesn't want to deal with six years of the hit.
- Speaking of which, CBJ set their protected list at:
7F - Atkinson, Domi, Nylander, Dubois, Bjorkstrand, Robinson, Nyquist/Wenny
3D - Jones, Werenski, Gavrikov
1G - Kivlenieks
- Foudy looks to be a big part of the future of the team, but starts the season in CLE to get additional conditioning.
- CBJ are, for the most part, secure in their roster situation for the next two seasons. After that, Jones, Werenski, and Elvis are all due for raises. Fortunately, the cap will be set to rise at that point (hopefully).