My five:
KESSEL: the only correct name at number one for anyone who knows anything about hockey. PpG, guaranteed 30+ goals, makes every linemate look like a star, just insanely talented. Oh, and still very much young.
Kadri: The 1c we've all been crying over for years, although by next season a certain portion will be demanding a trade when he outscores another teams 1c 2-1 on average, but just doesn't play the game big enough for them.
Lupul: arguably the heart and soul of this team, probably should be captain. Now if only we could keep him healthy.
Franson: I think we are finally seeing the emergence of the Dman we thought we were getting in the trade.
Kulemin: he may not score as much as he once (and I mean that literally) did, but he is a solid board presence, and will play a key role on this team for years.
HM: Phaneuf
Top 3 to go:
Grabbo: Heart and soul player. But with Bozak going nowhere, Kadri emerging, and McClement being solid, nowhere for him to play.
Reimer/ Scrivens: either one could be a starting goalie in the NHL with a solid vet playing behind them. As a tandem, nobody there to fix the inevitable shattered ego that is bound to follow playing in this market. One of them needs to go, and a vet brought in.
Liles: great guy, solid d, but with the emergence of Franson and possibly Gardiner, we have better, younger options.
Did not include:
Jake Gardiner: on the fence about him. Could be for real, but not ready to include him yet.
JVR: I wonder how much is Kessel....
Rielly: hasn't played a game yet, still nearly untouchable though.