My solution would be to try and target Jacob Trouba out of Winnipeg.
Assuming that we don’t land the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd OA in this year’s draft, I think we should try and trade for Trouba by using our 1st rounder as part of a packaged deal.
Our left side D isn’t horrible, but our Right Side D needs some significant work.
1) Extend Edler and gradually phase him to a 2nd and even 3rd pairing as Hughes starts to get his feet wet and becomes worthy of a top 4 role. 2 year deal max for Edler with an NTC/NMC and a higher than expected AAV. Edler gets all these benefits IF he agrees to a 2 year deal. Nothing more than two years.
2) Trouba replaces Tanev as the top pairing guy. This will also allow Tanev to be a little less injury prone as his responsibilities become less.
3) Keep Hutton and Stecher as your 2nd or 3rd pairing guys.
4) A developed Juolevi or a returning Tryamkin can replace Edler in the line-up one day.
5) Woo should make the team one day.
Next year:
Edler-Trouba
Hutton-Stecher
Hughes-Tanev
Future:
Hughes-Trouba
Hutton-Woo
[Juolevi or Tryamkin]-Stecher
If Juolevi and a returning Tryamkin really impress, then perhaps moving Hutton for a pick could be an option as well.
Few tidbits:
1) Don’t Sign Myers. Too slow and injury prone, and the money and term he’ll demand won’t be worth it, given his age. He’d be an upgrade over Gudbranson, but the predatory analytics community in Vancouver will curb stomp this guy and he’ll become the new Erik.
2). You can consider Stralman, but I’m not a fan of his age......and the term he’d want. I’d be somewhat wary of Stralman but wouldn’t be too upset if we got him.
If Trouba doesn’t mind being in Canada but simply wants out of Winnipeg, Target this guy big time.