I like where your head is at but I think Ottawa would need more to pull the trigger on an EK trade. I also think they would be willing to take Bolland back. Rumor is Hammer just got signed for 4 more years and I believe OELs new contract is for 8.25. Karlsson is likely to command $12MM moving forward- heck it could be more. I think this option commits too much money too soon (mainly because of BRyan) but it's certainly an interesting concept. This would put strain on AZ in the coming years when it comes time to re-sign their RFAs (definitely not the worst problem to have) but it also comes back to the fact that I think OTT would want more.

Its interesting. I understand your point. Arizona has a pretty good team tbh.

I think coaching is such an X factor with them. Tocchet is still so unproven and special teams and systems are obviously huge for every team. Last year they had a ton of injuries but a lot of his lineup and usage decisions were questionable as well (using Rinaldo with the goalie pulled for example - probably could've worked with Duclair more maybe?)