We are at least worth watching again, it will help to get Atkinson and Risto back, and hopefully Couts.
If you're developing young players, you want to bring them up, put them in sheltered situations, and gradually work them into bigger roles as they get comfortable in the NHL. Cates and Frost would be better served on the 3rd line right now, getting PK2 and PP2 minutes, developing their games - and if they're ready for more responsibility, it'll be shown by their play.
You may hate Risto, but as the 2RHD, it allows them to work in Zamula and Attard and eventually York on the 3rd pair, initially with a veteran partner, eventually with two rookies paired later in the season.
Throwing a player in the deep end is not good development, sometimes they tread water, often they drown, rarely do they show good form.