SupersonicMonkey*
Guest
Skjei will likely be able to fill the second pairing slot in 15-16. We've had rookies play on our second pairing and do quite well before (McDonagh, Sauer). This is Brady's third year of college. His game is mature and we don't have to worry about his physical tools given his size and skating ability. And it's not the end of the world if Skjei needs a season in Hartford and we need a one-year stopgap.
On the other hand, flushing a massive chunk of our cap space into a deteriorating Staal for the next six+ years when we also need to pay Stepan, Zuccarello, Hagelin, and St. Louis is not feasible. We cannot afford to give big, long contracts to everyone and Staal is not a good bet to be worth that deal given his inconsistencies and injury history.
I agree.
Skjei, is a VERY intelligent player. His fundamentals and positioning are great. His skating is great. He has a solid frame and long reach.
Rangers wanted him signed and getting top minutes in Hartford. But, its hard to blame the kid for wanting another shot at a National Title before going pro, getting stronger, and being able to work on developing his offense without the pressure of the Pro game while doing it.
Staal is deteriorating. Good way to put it. He is constantlt a step slow getting to pucks, his puck movement is slower, he is best when he isn't moving around. Tough in front of Henke and good in the corners. But when teams are pressing with speed he has issues.