Given that the trade of the two AHLers didn't have any extras included, likely means that any deadline deals between the two clubs is not going to happen.
unfortunately, it is looking as if you might be right.
However, we are seeing increasingly since Namest.-JT Miller was a separate transaction to the McD deal, that they preferred to itemize.
My immediate point was and remains Skjei is a better option than Montour, esp since Monty is a little off this year compared to his prime.
Assuming Canes go max protection for the exp dr
7 + 3 + 1
as to the 3 Ds:
Pesce + Slavin are automatic no brainers
so is Hamilton IF he extends.
But worst case, you get strength/depth for now into next year.
Skjei has no special trade or move clauses to my knowledge
So you would expose him....
unless....
you get use out of him and then flip him elsewhere for like a 2nd.
But if no one is making available anyone good for cheap, it's either pay or takes yer chances.
While the Rangers can't/shouldn't be expected to give Skjei away for free, I believe the asking price here is reasonable -- and within reason, flexible.
Maybe instead of a 1st, it should be
return of NYR 2020 2nd + 2022 1st
for
Skjei + McKeown + 2022 2nd
NY should, however, recognize it needs to not only repurpose Skjei's cap but needs to give mins to emerging Ds.