Signing a higher end UFA ie Hayes would require at least 5 years. So you're expecting to overpay for the initial productive 2-3 years and waste the last couple of seasons for Cozens/Turcotte?
I'm not necessarily disagreeing, but AVs are entering a phase of contention and still need to be careful in offering long-term expensive deals.
So let's say 5 years or Hayes (even though I think we all figure it may be longer, but let's go w/ 5).
Here's how I could potentially see it playing out:
Year 1: 2C (Cozens or Turcotte are in the CHL or NCAA)
Year 2/Year 1 ELC: 2C (Cozens or Turcotte are likely in the NHL because the Avs tend to rush F prospects, but they're either playing W or 3rd/4th line C)
Year 3/Year 2 ELC: First possible year that Cozens/Turcotte could be in the 2C role, but let's say they split w/ Hayes for 2C role while also playing 3C
Year 4/Year 3 ELC: Hopefully solidified 2C role, Hayes down to 3rd/4th C (depending on what happens with Bowers)
Year 5/Post ELC Year 1: Same as above.
So there is one year on that type of plan where there's some overlap, however that's where we have buyouts if needed, or potential trades, the cap increases, etc.
