I'd vote no on the Fox for Zucc deal. We have to add compensation if Fox walks but we get no compensation if Zucc walks. And I can't imagine we'd want to pick him up just to trade him at the trade dealine. I guess we'd have until then to try to work out an extension and in theory could trade him if it becomes clear there's no extension to be had, but that also means he'd be subtracted from our team heading into the playoffs, if we're in such a spot. I'd rather pursue other options and would very much prefer a right shot RW. It's a no in my opinion, though the value seems good, for what it's worth.
Thank you for the detailed, well articulated no vote.
I get how esp w/def we wanna try and stay L-R at sides.
That said, Zuc has experience at RW, and plays either based on who linemates are. Conceded, a righty Zuc is an even better, more ideal match, but lefty Zuc is an acceptable fallback position [in the sense that you could do a lot worse].
However, the other aspect you brought up is a good point.
I can only say that Zuc as a UFA vet would obviously control his future, but at least you would get the year out of him and you would have inside dibs to extend him on a # you both like. {I agree that should be the strategy, not trading him in mid season, although, depending on what the return is as a rental if a team is desperate enough, it might be a profitable fallback of something later and actual Zuc for half a year.}
Obviously, I go there b'c I expect Rangers to sign Fox, but there are no guarantees. Kid has all the cards, can go to school, wait, redraft, possibly higher. Presumably same initial elc $, but still...
I wouldn't say signing Fox is harder than extending Zuc.
I am saying even tho Rangers on paper, w/need for RD, are an immediate fit which CAL is not, there are no guarantees either way.
We have to hope Kreider tells him, start your career early if you cut it and do college/grad/post grad further studies in the off season. Hire a tutor or two to help you here in NY during personal time, you can afford it, and NY is closer to Boston for school appearances during off season.
Thanks for the post.