Not ready to take a “sky is falling” attitude quite yet, but I think the last few games against some good teams has made it apparent that there are areas to address at the deadline if this team is truly “all-in”:
- Need another Top 4 D. McAvoy and Lindholm are clearly Top 4 material. Carlo, despite his awful road trip, can still be a Top 4 D. But even with improved play this season, two of Cliffy, Gryz, and Forbort should still be bottom-pair D on an elite team.
- Need another reliable middle six forward who can slot up and down the lineup in the event of injury. DeBrusk’s injury has impacted and imbalanced the Top 9. Not sure who exactly that is, but I’m thinking someone like Rich Peverley in 2011.
Of course there are cap consideartions, yadda yadda, but a couple of additions could really help the team’s chances at a deep cup run.