The Caps kinda need to do whatever it takes to have the best shot possible this year and next...if that means standing pat, so be it...but hoarding a few nuts to not give 110% to this window would be beyond weak/dumb/lame...
If those nuts will help to prolong the window for 1-2 years - it's not that obvious.
The oldest core players are Ovi and Backy. They both aren't quicker by the year. But I'm sure they can maintain their level for several years. They are motivated to peak again for Korea 2018 at least. And they can be pretty effective even if a bit slower. 2C Backstrom and the best shot in the game Ovechkin are good for me. Any day of the week.
Holtby and the defense should be in their prime for longer than 2015-17. Arguably, they can be even better.
The only possible trouble is cap hell. That's where Vrana, Bowey and younger Williams will help much.
Also, having such a good team will help to attract more useful UFAs.
In the end, if you have to pay premium to upgrade 7D (Ness->Polak) and 4LW (Laich->Grabner) I'd say thanks. No need to trade #1 or Samsonov for it.
Last time good young goalie brought us very good package. Why would we trade our new blue chipper for marginal upgrade?
George was right. Hoarding nuts is the only way to go!