Over the past 5 seasons, Conor Timmins has basically played, at most, half a season. He just hasnt had enough games to develop.
If Luke Schenn can step in as a 7th D, and become a reliable partner for Rielly, maybe Timmins can play that role this year. Tougher minutes for sure, but if all youre being asked is to take care of your own zone it could work. Now before you all jump on me for ‘claiming him as a first pairing D’, all I am trying to illustrate is that you need to give these younger players real chances ro know what you have in them. Timmins and Liljegren have both showed top 4 potential.
Thats why i’m good starting the year with the group we have, we can always make a trade mid-season if needed.