Quoting: Sens2030
Firstly I never indicated I hate Zaitsev. The way I see the depth playing out along with managing a cap (and smaller internal cap thanks to melnyk) his contract will be a problem. Similar to White if he doesn't tur it around. I like Zaitsev and what he brings but as a 6th defenceman, its not feasible.
I think its a battle of Zub or Zaitsev in our top 4, which is a no debate in my opinion. Zub is way better defensively and will be great with Chabot this year. (A methot and karlsson type pairing).
After this year top 6 d are likely,
Chabot - Zub
Sanderson- Brannstrom
Del Zotto - JBD
(Thomson another year away).
4.5 mill for Zaitsev just doesn't fit. Plus the need to resign Stutzle (likely 7.5-9), Brannstrom (2.5-4.5), Norris (5-6.5), JBD and Formenton within the next two years.
Lawson Crouse needs a change of scenery, and brings a physical game you need. Kelly, Crookshank, and Greig all vying for spots which will mean Crouse is likely a filler for a half season or healthy scratch. I would also consider Dineen to bolster the AHL team destined for a run this year in replace of Crouse.
I am aware Alsing is in the KHL, but still gives them the rights. Boro doesn't have much value on last year of a deal and not playing a lot last year. I would add a 6th if needed. He brings leadership as an 8th dman next year and physicality DJ loves when they likely move on from J Brown and possibly flip Holden at the TDL.
OTT
Crouse, Lawson
ARI
Abramov, Vitaly [Reserve List]
Zaitsev, Nikita
2022 3rd round pick (BOS)
Crouse is approaching 300 games, where a players level of production has been established. Crouse has averaged 22 points per 82 games in his career, and was on a 21 point pace last season, which is below 4th line production. He's bad, and not worth a 3rd, and in fact, he's not worth Abramov one for one. Your trade is Abramov, AND a 3rd, AND Zaitsev for Crouse. You don't have to say you hate him, your trade says you hate him.
Now take Zaitsev out of the Senators lineup, and his $4.5MM contract, and the team is suddenly $7.7MM under the cap floor and the team will be forced to give Tkachuk more than they want to, which is not good. I'll explain why later. There's a reason the team has Zaitsev, White, and Murray, the three players that get the most flak for their contracts, they need them to not just get to the cap floor, but to get above it by enough to make trades that might lower their cap level.
Players high salaries are irrelevant when the team is so far below the cap ceiling. Zaitsev has a role on this team, and he's doing it better than any other current defenceman can, including Zub, or he wouldn't be utilized like he is.
NHL team salaries are complex, but just know, for now, Zaitsev, White, and Murray are needed not just as players, but for their contracts as well.
One last point, as mentioned earlier, over pay a player you are willing to trade, not the player you want to keep.