Not to damnpen your enthusiasm at all, but I remember a time when many Pittsburgh fans were talking about how Dumoulin wouldn't have a place on Pittsburgh's blueline due to Letang, Maatta, Despres, Morrow, Harrington and Pouliot all being ahead of him, and how he should be traded for a forward. I also remember a time when Quick was seen as a place holder for Bernier.
I'm not saying that's what you're suggesting (you didn't), but I wouldn't be so quick to put any sort of timeline on Pickard's future with Philly until he plays some games and you see how he does. He could very well be your starter for the next 10 years. I wouldn't bet on that, but you get what I'm saying.