I don't think it is that complicated with Ranta... as was feared, his incredibly low hockey IQ couldn't be overcome to get him into the NHL. So he's back in Europe and by the time the next poll rolls around he's 24. It would not shock me at some point that he tries NA and the NHL again, but it would shock me if it is with the Avs and if he'd stick. Like Kamenev and others before, he's done here and IMO isn't even in the conversation.
IMO we are really down to only 3 prospects left. Ishimnikov, Romaine, and Makar... Miner, Ranta, Zhiggy, and Shmakov are all destined to just age out or rights lost. Of them, only Miner may have a slight impact on the AHL team anymore.
Ishimnikov is still my guy here. Can't skate worth a lick, but he's going to be on the list for a while, will have time to improve things, and if he comes over chances are he'll get a NHL game or three as a concession.
Romaine... I didn't like his season in the USHL. But he's going to a good college and we will have to see what happens there.
Makar... he's got a puncher's chance, literally. That's how he makes the NHL. Hit people, go slightly over the line, and fight. There isn't enough skill there to be anything more than that. My worry is his coachability and temper. Dude goes over the line and does some really stupid stuff... takes a ton of bad penalties. He's also in the doghouse a lot for other reasons. But if the Avs want to keep Cale happy and they feel they need an enforcer type, Taylor could fit the mold.