The biggest problem is that if Talbots 18/19 season results in him only earning a 4.5 mill deal as a UFA that means he had another bad season.

I would guess Talbot gets 6 on his next deal given the consistency he’s shown throughout his career and since he became a starter a bit later this will be his last big pay day and he will want to cash in big

I like the depth at center. Wings should be developing enough to compete. Right D looks kinda weak.

I'd keep Kris Russell.

Not sure that Duchene is really available at that price-tag. Not sure he's worth more, but the cap will be increasing and there might not be that many other good free agents...

I really like the idea of bringing Maroon back to play with Draisatl. He scored some goals in that role, before. Don't see why he woudn't want to give it another shot. You've built a very young, skilled team with a lot of growth potential. Duchene has certainly had his best offensive years in a middle six role, so moving him back to that sort of a spot makes sense. I'm not sure I see the value in paying 7x7 for a 3C, especially if the number hurts the defense, but it's certainly an important position.

I think last year squashes any chance of him getting over 5. 4.5 is a raise but I think a good gm would be able to negotiate down to that price - think Craig Anderssen in terms of one good season one bad season one good season - that's the comparable I'd be using

Good point. That said I honestly think a team like CGY would be willing to give Talbot 6. Not even taking the rivalry into consideration, Talbot is the kind of goalie I think they will be after after this season

EDM doesn’t have a need at centre, in my opinion, but more of a need for good defence men and wingers. Strome as a 3rd Line centre would do for the oilers.

strome sucks and that defense is fine