The_Chosen_One
Registered User
I could see Kadri developing into an 7-8 million dollar skilled center. Seeing that Kessel doesn't require a skilled guy in the middle, and would play much more consistently with a defensively-oriented power forward. Rather someone like Gauthier or Holland would be the better fit.If Kadri becomes the player we all hope he will and takes over, he will be asking significantly more than 6m.
If Kadri is only a 6m player by then, I don't think he's still a Leaf. (Unless of course he develops a hell of a two way game)
As for Bozak, I could see him stabilising the second line as well. Both Clarkson, Lupul, or their successors would play a lot better with a defensive-oriented centre. Much like Chicago, we'll have a core that can be maintained long-term. I think top 9's core will look like this:
JVR - X - Kessel
Lupul - Bozak - X
X - Bolland - Clarkson
If Kadri becomes a two-way wizard, we may see a two-way scoring line that has Bolland and Clarkson on his wing. I don't think the cap will be a big issue, and we may even end up trading Lupul in the coming future. Gauthier, Holland, and other prospects will be able to fill out the gaps.
Bolland - Kadri - Clarkson.
It'd be like our own Marchand - Bergeron - Eriksson line.