Next year with a competent coach

That is one expensive 3rd line...

But in genuine curiosity, is Vesalainen ready for that role?

I've liked his game in pretty much every game I've seen. He's strong on the puck. Maurice just doesn't give him a shot. Also yeah that third line is expensive, but Copp and Lowry are good players, and Wheeler would likely do much better in a reduced role because he has struggled all season long

Wow

1. Wheeler is still playing at almost a point per game, is the clear leader of the team still, and Jets fans can't stop hating on him.
2. Vesalainen is not ready I don't think for top 6 yet. Maybe for spurts next year if he shows up.
3. That's not an overpay on Hamilton. His value is going to be AT LEAST $8.5 million as a UFA, likely more in the bidding war.
4. Josh Morrissey hasn't been good, but he has not been terrible. He hasn't put up numbers, but he's a pretty talented two-way defenseman who will absolutely be protected over DeMelo. Later on in his tenure his contract actually might be more valuable relative to the cap.

Samberg and a 2nd for dunn and this team wins the cup

Wheeler is literally the worst defensive forward in the league this season. I don't think it's a stretch to say he isn't as good as he used to be, and he has dragged lineups in the top 6 down. Vesa is interesting but I like his game and would like to see a more spread out approach in the lines instead of just a hard top 6, bottom 6. I do agree that Dougie probably could and should get more in FA, I would be willing to pay that. Josh Morrissey has been ruined for the past couple of years playing with absolute anchors such as Poolman and Beaulieu. Some of the blame has to be put on him, but I do believe that he isn't this bad, and a partner as good as Hamilton with a system change will make him really good again.