looking at those bottom 2 d pairings... is that really better than keeping zaitzev? It basically just cancels out all the offense you'll be getting from keeping kappy/marner/matthews

You could actually get more for zaitsev. There are GM's that are interested in him

yes, Zaitsev is not close to Dermott while at the same time not being much if any better than OZ. Lil obviously needs to be ready for the step up but the cap saving is necessary with Zaitsev.

Possibly, he's someone they need to move either way though

I like the thought of Rosen being a NHLer next year. But doubt if Liljegern is NHL ready. Gotta think some forward is traded for cap space in order to acquire a Dman if only short term.

Possible, hearing Dubas say he thought he'd have a spot at some point this year gives me huge optimism, from all accounts he was progressing well in the A until his injury. My opinion he'll be an NHLer, probably not on the 2nd pair though. Hyman would be my pick truthfully if you can get a year stopgap 4-5 guy for him.