worth mentioning that if PIT isn't up for that McCann trade, could always do the COL 2nd + 3rd for bringing back cobra.

I don't hate it. But the right side is still very weak. I'd rather bring Cobra back. I'd also rather pair Pickles with Merkley as he will require a vet presence with him in year 1

solid lineup

I think two 3rd round picks is enough for Reimer but I don't think they will also retain 50%

I also think it's better if Merkley spends the season in the AHL

I think that would be the best opportunity, but with the late season start and the confidence management seems to have, I could see him making the direct jump, he looked good in even last years preseason.

Someone I asked said CAR would retain on them, and I think the potential return of a 2nd + 3rd (likely just 4th) would make that enticing.

was considering that, just a matter of cap space (I would like to get Craig Smith).

My preference would be to get a Defensive RD (funny enough 2 of the notable names are Braun and Demelo) would be much better for him to be able to stick to his game rather than masquerading as a two way D with Karlsson.

Also hope Leonard makes the team. He has top six potential written all over him with his scoring prowess.

he could be ready but I don't think 3rd pairing minutes is best for his development

I would rather keep him on the top pair in the AHL for the 20-21 season and give him top power play minutes. Then in the 21-22 season if Burns is traded or chosen by Seattle Merkley can immediately jump into a top 4 role playing with a solid shutdown guy like Vlasic or Simek.

(this could also work if Burns' production falls off a cliff)

I love watching him, dominates games with his individual skill.

penguins happily say yes

ok good lol, I had someone tell me a while back that PIT would never part with him for less than a 1st... realistically, how much do you say he moves for?

true but Labanc and Fast have done well in top 6 roles before. The center depth is also very strong so they kinda cancel each other out.

honestly 2nd or 3rd

Good roster. I really like it. I'm not totally sure that Carolina would willing to retain that much money or if they'd even be willing to retain at all, but if they did, that would be a great trade. But with the center situation, if we're playing McCann at 3C, I don't think Jumbo comes back. I don't think he'd love to be playing 4C, and I'd honestly rather give that position to guys like True/Gambrell/Letunov/Handemark who can continue to develop and prove their worth, than play Jumbo there.

I think Thornton (and same with Marleau) aren't going to start the season anywhere but San Jose, they both have families that grew up here and have deep ties to the organization, if need be, McCann could always be on the LW.

Yeah true. It's just tough to gauge. Deep down I do want them back, but I'm not sure if it's in our best interest (especially with Marleau)