Quoting: csick
You’d be surprised about Brannstrom. Our 2nd pairing has been terrivle with Mete, Zaitsev, MDZ. White provides stability on that 3rd line something We’ve been missing. Pinto makes a massive difference . Our record with him in the lineup is proof
White on 3rd pushes Pinto to #4 - Pinto has scoring potential so that's a waste.
Branstrom has continued primarily on pedigree, not performance. Not sure it's an upgrade - especially if he's expected to play a shut down role.
Tierney regressed this year for sure and injuries hurt - but there isn't any proof yet that next year's up and comers will do better than current years RF/UFAs.
I can't see Giroux signing here to end his career - no matter how home suck we want him to be. And while Sens may be "in" on Kuzmenko According to Dorion - that's very different from getting him. Sens can only offer lowest salary (925,000 at the highest tax rates in the NHL), second line opportunity. and will cash strapped to pay him in 1-2 years as Norris, Pinto, Ridley, Sanderson, Branstrom, Thomson, Formenton will all need bridge / longer term deals or be close to it.
Sens should be looking to move some younger assets or picks next year to get more established and proven players