The original poster is absolutely right. There is no doubt that if this team is in a similar position near the deadline as they are now (top 3 in division, top 5 in conference, top 8 in league), you MUST go all in. This season, right now. Another chance like this might not come along for 10 years regardless of who is resigned or let go. You play to win a championship THIS year and then figure everything else out after the season. This current group of players is already a unit that if it stays healthy should win a round or two in the playoffs. However, and I am not joking, this team is literally 2-3 things away from being a legit contender for the CUP, not the playoffs, not the conference finals, the CUP.
1) Would I Love OEL or someone of that level? Yes. I hope it happens. But I think we need a legit, top 3 dman. Not necessarily a bona fide number 1, although if we can get that, great. But i think a real top 3 dman gets it done.
2) A third line center that specializes in faceoffs.
3) Either a goaltending upgrade or see the recent improvement from our own goalies continue
If these three things happen, I believe we can beat any team in the NHL and it is a matter of the team just going out on the ice and doing it.