imo ROR is a 1st liner.
low end first liner and not a game breaker or good goal scorer
You dont trade Hoffman. Every team needs a Hoffman.
He's not untouchable. I'd trade him. I might not be actively shopping him, mind you, but he's not on my "never ever" list either.
I mean, I wouldn't trade him just because I can or whatever, like... I wouldn't trade the kid because I don't want him on the team or anything. I like him. He's a plus guy.
If some GM offers us a pure hokey trade makes sense for the Sens and he's involved though, I wouldn't hesitate to move him. You just have to make sure you win whatever trade you are sending him off in.
I would only move Hoffman if we were packaging him with other pieces for a bonafide star. He's been an elite offensive player at even strength this season.
IF we trade Hoffman it better be for a gamebreaker. We lack those and that exactly is what Hoffman is and the special element he brought to our club.
IMO, the most likely scenario that ends with Hoffman being moved is if we can't come to terms with him on his next contract. He has already been up front about wanting a shorter term deal to bridge to a big payday in a couple of years. If we can't lock him in with term, then the team may balk at giving him a decent payday for a short term deal.
All hypothetical, but I do see Hoffman's contract as being potentially difficult to get done. Especially with other RFAs needing to be signed.
Really thinking Zbynek Michalek would be a good candidate to target in free agency. Could use a more responsible partner for Ceci. Not too high profile, not to expensive, and we have his bro.