If kuzmenko ends up only costing 6million per for 4 years he's probably just going to re-sign with the canucks at that much money. You will either need to offer more term or a higher AAV.

He may like Vancouver but why would he want to stay there, I had high hopes for them but they are gonna be losing Horvat, they don't have a good cap situation (OEL) and don't seem anywhere near close to being cup contenders

I think he just likes the city and he did choose them this summer so there is that. I would say the canucks would sign him at 6 million per for 4 years because he is only 26 ATM he is a versatile player playing up and down our lineup. To get him to move on from Vancouver I would say longer term like 5-6 years might work or give him 6.5 or 7 but that depends on how he ends the season.

Like your analysis. Looks like the Devils may want to upgrade at LHD....maybe a short term vet, and get a RHD if Nemec isn't ready.

THIS YEAR
I think they add a few pcs for playoffs this year (JVR), maybe Reimer as a backup, I have no confidence in MB. Schenn as a defender if we look like we are solidly in the PO's

NEXT YEAR
-Wood wants to stay but gets offered more cash, probably by Buf and leaves.
-Both defenders are sent to FA, I don't agree with this right now because we don't look like young guys can grab the reins just yet.
-Timo fits a need, but it's a summer deal. I cant see it being both Holtz and our 1st etc, but a very good qty pkg (yeah I know SJ fans its not enough for you)
-SJ has to do a rebuild and Timo's timing is off on that, so he is moved. Is it this TDL as a rental elsewhere? Maybe. Then a FA for us.
-I think we need a heavy top 9 forward, who can skate, heavy board play, stick up for team. I hope its Comtois on the cheap, and in fact another big body like Marchment.
-I think they trade Blackwood's right or straight out let him go. Schmid proved he can play, another half yr probably get him there.
-Tatar Johnsson are let go.
-Bratt signs a deal before the season ends, and its enough to allow for a Timo-like signing. Kuz is too much at $6M
-The D is very interesting. I don't think adding two rooks is smart, Smith signing is smart in that regard.
-Walsh is moved, maybe in that Timo pkg. Could also include other pcs like Bahl and Ohotiuk, Boquist at C (Thompson replaces him)
-Depending on if the ask is still crazy Chychrun should not be dismissed.
-We need to add Cs to the prospect pool and RH wingers
-Does McCleod have legal issues, that changes stuff
Thats the big stuff

Soucy at LHD?
Holden

Mayfield at RHD?
Mark Pysyk
TVR
Schenn
Braun

Agree with all this, except....

1. I think they make legit effort to retain one of Graves and Severson. If neither, I think they add a dman on short-term deal (either via trade or FA). Hughes will probably be ready next year, Nemec can slide one more year and there is good chance we see Mukhamadullin before Nemec.

2. I don't think Timo will be much of an option considering contract situation. San Jose won't let other teams negotiate with him. Once he gets to RFA and can talk elsewhere, he will be restricted to 1-year deal only, which means he would not be able to come with long-term extension.

3. I expect Walsh, Boqvist, Thompson, Clarke etc to be trade bait (and 2023 1st).

4. Gritsyuk and McCarthy should be darkhorse names for 2023-24 roster.

Go get Pastrnak and to hell with defense.

I didnt have this on my bingo card but I do agree with it