In this unrealistic but fun scenario, BUF maneuvers to get Michkov at 6. The WSH deal framework is possible, Buffalo and others have tried/done this type of deal before with an even greater disparity between pick numbers ( ie OTT last year offering 7th and a cap dump for 16).

The two ARZ deals would be a major blockbuster at the draft. I think they are close to fair, top 10 picks are rarely moved but this isn’t a major move back scenario. The Keller deal is similar/better than the Chychrun deal, especially with the unprotected first. Rosen is also a ready to near ready A NHL prospect.

The CGY deal I somewhat struggled with, I know a 1st or better prospect would be what Flames fans would like. But a young NHL RHD replacement, and the equivalent of 2 2nds in an actual 2nd and a former 2nd/Current B Prospect doesn’t seem like it would be way off

UPL could also be included in the Keller trade. That or sent to another team for a 2nd.

And for a future look towards next year, Mantha, Okposo, Boosh, Comrie, Andersen would all be coming off the books (~16M). Dahlin, Power, Hanifan, Krebs extensions would be right around that (~13-16M). Leaving sign or trade options for Mittelstadt, etc depending on cap, play, and other factors.

Even though Arizona shouldn't execute the possibility unless they receive a boatload of assets, why does Keller in Buffalo make so much sense in my mind?

Not remotely enough for Hanifin. If he's made available he easily returns a 1st+

This is directed at all Sabres ACGMs & not anyone in particular (don’t think Kevyn Adam’s is interested in taking my calls): move Krebs out instead of keeping him as your 4th line C. Your not doing him or the Sabres any favors playing him there. He can’t develop to the level of a 1 round , 17th overall on a 4th line. Just had the urge to throw that out there.

Absolutely zero chance the caps make that move.

A lot to like about your moves.
I love the line up.
Granato would probably play Greenway with Thompson.
Anderson is a great addition and hopefully he would sign here.
Solid top four but the bottom pairing would not play much and that would over work the top four.

Huge no from the Caps. Mantha's value isn't negative, at 50% retained he could net a 3rd. The 8th overall pick is wayyy too high to trade in a cap dump.

There is no scenario where the caps dump 8OA to move Mantha. Even with a first coming back

Would seem like a great match!



I don’t know about “not remotely enough” but fair enough that Hanifan talks would be looking to start with a 1st



Agreed, ideally he would be on the 3rd line but with these moves he would be on the 4th still.

The reality is that OTT deal is just a made up rumor. No team in the history of the Salary Cap in the NHL has EVER traded a Top 10 Pick with a “Cap Dump” to move back in the draft. The Capitals will Absolutely Not be trading one season of Anthony Mantha’s reasonable salary ($5.7M) to move back five spots in the 1st Rd and out of the Top 10.

He should be on the third line before too long. When I watch him, I see him busting it both ways, I think he still has to fine tune the defensive end, but the effort and talent are there. For me it's just a question of center or left wing. If Krebs continues to develop, him with a good two way winger like Quinn, could make for a very nice, much needed, two way third line.