Agree with both of you that Sok deal needs to get done as I see no chance of him returning as an OA. He will either sign ELC and go to AHL Iowa (like he did last year after OHL season) or he signs in Russia. I’d lean towards an ELC, since the Wild have already utilized him on their farm team.
Actual deadline is Jan 10 (Jan 9 for OAs). So this Friday could actually be his last game if he makes Russian WJC squad (long shot IMO, but you never know. He looked great in Suds for OHL Russia game)
Anyways , in my perfect scenerio I’d like to see Sok moved to highest bid. Would love to see him in SSM and they have an OA spot . Hopefully return the picks we spent on Niz.
Secondly, I’d like to see Laj and the Pilons get us a return as well. I don’t think there is much of a market for Laj, but the twins should get a small return . As a fan, I really hate selling the twins as I love their tenacity, heart, and work ethic. Having said that, they are 3rd line talents. Useful? Yes of course . They change the momentum of games. For me, it just keeps coming down to talent. When they play up in the lineup, they have a tough time stringing together passes and thinking one step ahead with the elite talent. I just can’t see the 2018-19 Wolves be successful if 2 of your 3 OAs per night are 3rd line grinders.
And lastly, I would listen on Pezzetta but would only move him if the offer is too good to refuse . With the growth and leadership he has already shown this season, I think he could be one of the best OAs in the entire league next year. I also don’t see the Habs in a hurry to sign him as he still has room to grow in this league.
I’d hold on D. We have spent way to much to acquire Veteran OA D in last 2 years . It would be refreshing to use the ones we already have on our roster and I think next years crop is strong enough to support the young core behind them.