Quoting: FireShero
This is just a step back to a years ago. Stop trying to rely on rookies/ unproven players to play prominent roles ie Zacha, Boqvist, Kuokkanen, Smith, Studenic, Butcher, Gusev, Merkley, etc.
Also Haula might even get a raise. He has been defacto 2C since Hughes cannot win faceoffs.
Grit is the only guy in that top 9 I see easily replacing. I would LOVE for Mercer to be a 3C, but I do think he goes to the wing. If our LWs are Palat, Bratt, Sharangovich, and RWs are Mercer, Holtz, Zetterlund....I am totally fine with that. I would however prefer a 3C upgrade, I just don't know who it would be.
Where I really don't agree with your argument is comparing Mercer, Holtz, Zetterlund to any of those weak prospects/signings from above. It is a step back to a point yes, but it is also way wiser use of the cap.
I'd be fine with Haula replacing Wood on the 4th line if he came back at a decent cost. The key thing is I am not open to long term deals for guys that don't have at least 2nd line talent. I do believe Sharangovich could be a 2nd liner, but I'd go term as he would be solid depth.
So in the end, give me a veteran 3C, and at least one more veteran RHD that is on a 1-2yr deal. Beyond that, I love the core.