Well, perhaps a closer look at last year might add some detail to this:
1st pairing
Murphy has done exceptionally well with OEL, so I can't see that pairing going by the wayside in favor of an OEL-Stone. Yes, Stone scored more points, but it's more important to balance things out. OEL-Murphy works much better since Murphy can cover OEL's arse when he has the occasional lapse.
2nd pairing
This will probably be Goligoski - Stone (once Stone returns from injury). From what I've gathered, Goligoski is more responsible around the net for when Stone inevitably blows his coverage. Z is in no way suited for 2nd pairing duty at this point in his career (although he may have to for a short time while Stone recovers)
3rd pairing
I'm guessing Connauton-Z will play here, although we may switch Z in and out of the lineup to get some of our younger D-men some ice-time (and because Z is slowing down quite a bit). I think I prefer a Dahlbeck - Connauton pairing here when Z is scratched for whatever reason.
Notable addition (missed in the piece)
DeAngelo. He may spend more time in the A this season, but while Stone recovers, I see a Goligoski-Connauton and Dahlbeck - DeAngelo pairing doing marginally well (if DeAngelo is ready for more NHL time)
Other D-men mentioned:
McBain is an AHL/Call-up signing
Tinordi is largely an AHL signing and possible call-up (until he "redeems" himself)
All in all, I'm still hoping we sign or acquire 1-2 D-men before the season begins. My inclination would be to sign Gryba and then move Dahlbeck, Connauton, and/or Tinordi (if they increase in value) later in the season.
Of course, I would also be in favor of buying Z out if our youngsters (DeAngelo and/or Wood) show they are "roster-worthy" in camp