So, you're sending Jake and Graves and a second for Schmaltz and a third? (What comes in to what goes out)

How does this make sense? Graves isn't THAT bad... and Jake's better than that, especially if he's signed an extension.

We have a growing number of delusional fans who seem determined to turn Graves into a cap dump.

I just don't see any big names signing here in the summer. They all know our days of contending are likely done and it dosen't make this a desirable landing spot. I think we need to really take our time with the rebuild to do it properly.

Graves hasn't looked good on our team, but he's still a good defenseman. EK hasn't looked good with us either, but he's still one of the top D-man in the league. It's just a matter of fit.

Money talks... If they can get a good deal for Jake, it can jumpstart a rebuild pretty quickly.

And it’s going to make a difference once we see a new coach, which I’m hoping for in the offseason (but also not expecting).

I agree, it would for sure speed it up. But at minimum it will take 4-5 years to rebuild properly. I think we need 3-4 years of having top 5 draft picks and then 1-2 more to see how it works out before we are thinking of contending again.

I"m not expecting a whole lot of movement in the coaching department... if there is, it'll be with the assistants before Sully goes.

I certainly don't get it. I would've much preferred Graves to Severson if I had to pick a Devils UFA last summer. I think I'd still trade them one for one now.