So you want to get smaller and easier to play against for the playoffs.

Just because Mantha is a big guy doesn't mean he plays big. He hasn't consistently played well all year. Garland plays with more tenacity and work ethic, which I'd say is more difficult to play against than a big body who doesn't use it. Regarding Eller, you're getting everything he does and then some with Backstrom coming back. Swapping him out for Kane is a) necessary financially, and b) makes the offense much more dynamic and gives the power play insane potential. So I definitely see this as an upgraded team.

CHI accepts. I'd like to say Kane is worth more, but I am so done arguing about his value. In the bigger picture, this is good enough. It helps the rebuild and if CHI really wants Kane back and he wants to come back, they can just resign him in the summer.

Also, yes, with Backstrom and Wilson coming back, WSH can probably afford to sacrifice a little size.

I love Mantha but if Caps aren't going to use him properly then I'll take that deal.

And hard pass on the Kane deal. He isn't that good anymore. Not paying that much for a rental. Use the same package, add a little more and go get Meier.

I’d also like Meier. I like the idea of reuniting Kane and Strome, and the impact Kane could have on the power play. I also think the supporting cast in Chicago this year has impacted Kane’s numbers/performance and that he could still be a huge boost