Do you think Carrier can really play the top line, given he was 7th D this season?

I also think that Tarasenko signing gets us into trouble.

Risk reward here isn't worth it.

That is likely correct value for Carrier (low 2nd / high 3rd) ... however, I see Trotz holding him until trade deadline as if he breaks out this season (as he should), he could be worth a lot more come deadline.

I think he plays a game that is more complimentary to Fowler than Drysdale or Gudas. Carrier was really good 2 years ago and was more of a 6D this year. Think he was more of a victim of NSH having insane defensive depth

This is absolutely the case for Carrier. NSH has had a major logjam at defense for years, especially at RD. Before free agency NSH had 5 RD's that needed NHL time (Fabbro, Carrier, Barrie, Livingstone, and Foote). Even with Livingstone getting a 2-way contract and letting Foote go, bringing in Schenn means there is still an odd guy out.

Without the logjam Carrier likely is top 4, and even had a good stint where he was Josi's partner on the top pair. A 3rd and 4th is probably close for Carrier. A 2nd would like be what NSH asks for though.