Also Khaira is amongst the 1st to go.I like that group. The main guy to keep is Sheahan. And the main guy not to keep is Gagner. After that it's a toss up to me. I like Haas and Russell. Nygaard. I see something in Granlund still
Who voted for Granlund?
I picked 6 because until we have a replacement. Haas, Nygard, Archie, JJ, Sheahan and Chiason. Are the best of the list I think.
If I was planning next season...
Benson/FA Signing/Chiasson
Nygard/Sheahan/Archibald
?
- Benson steps in as 3LW, with a possibility of moving into the top 6 and bumping Neal down.
- FA Signing for 3C, which is a dire need.
- Chiasson is one of the better scorers here and we already have him signed.
- Comes down to the size & grit of Khaira vs the speed of Nygard. Since our 3rd line has a pair of wingers not known for their speed, I opt for Nygard.
- Sheahan's been good.
- Extra forwards: Look for someone in the same vein as Rattie/Jurco. Not opposed to keeping P. Russell as well as our workhorse/pk specialist type.
Why you dont like Haas or P Russell?
I think Haas can play pro here.
Why I don't like Haas for 3C
I feel that 3C is a big need for us, and Haas wouldn't be my first choice for that position. Would rather seek someone out who is more established, provides more offense, and can play top 6 wing if needed.
Strome actually fit this fairly well, despite having a down-year.
Ideal Extra Forwards
As for the extra forwards, I like that Chia and Holland gave Rattie and Jurco a chance. Sure, they are tweeners, but they have skill and you never know if they'll catch fire with one of our skilled C's. Rattie did previously, and his contract was great value for a time.
So I'd seek out a 'skilled' tweener.
As for the other extra forward, I don't place a huge emphasis on it. Ideally you want someone who gives a new look to your bottom 6. It's nice to have a utility guy (Letestu), energy/character (Hendricks/P. Russell), size/puck protection (Khaira).
I'm not sure who I'd want. You can make a case for Currie, Gambardella, and Marody. (I really liked Currie's game when he was up here).
It usually ends up being the coaches go to guy when he needs a player that he can trust defensively, works hard, and is coachable/low maintenance. Pakarinen for TMac, P. Russell so far for Tippett.
Something has been really off with him this year, very inconsistent and hardly ever using his speed and size.I think Khaira needs another go. He does have a good game in him just doesn't show it often.
I am late to the voting party but holy hell is it common sense to keep Nygard, Haas, Archie and Sheahan.
Who voted for Granlund?
Agreed. I also dont mind keeping Gagner around as 13th forward, In case of any injuries in the top 6. If we can keep him for under 1M I think he has valuable.I am late to the voting party but holy hell is it common sense to keep Nygard, Haas, Archie and Sheahan.