Kovy is enticing but I think we need to free cap space and then spread it into meaningful depth. I think we have enough creation skill in malkin and Crosby. We have enough finish in Perron and horny. Sure there are better players. But I don't see those facets as weak.
I think we need two Kreider like players in the top six. Guys who back off defenses, enhance open lanes, and allow our skill players more space on the ice to use it.
Then we need a younger, larger, meaner bottom six. The emotion players. Guys who play far cleaner than Downie but put some real sting in the lineup.
We need to put players in the right roles on the pp.
We need to leverage our young talent on D to utilize drafted assets and build a more complete team.
It sounds like a lot, but I think all of it is feasible between now and next year. At least significant progress could be made.
We could also use true accountability from a coaching standpoint and possibly a more vocal supporting leadership cast who will force the players to call their own spades what they are (spades) when things start slipping. The anti diplomat to sids face of the game obligations.
I'm worried about the mentality of the team rather than the roster. The roster can definitely be fixed in an off-season if we get some luck with bottom 6 guys. When I think of all the issues with the mentality, I worry that we need a bigger shake-up.
Mentality/systems:
- pride in our manner of play
- will to win no matter the cost
- desire to win every period
- accountability to veterans
- opportunity to young guys
- power play simplified
- puck support in our zone, 5 guys supporting the puck instead of 2 or 3.
- controlled breakouts
Personnel:
- Trade Kunitz for a young, physically imposing tweener who can possess the puck
- Trade Scuderi for picks
- Trade Sutter for either a dominant 4th liner + picks or a veteran 3rd liner who brings the attitude and 'rah-rah' leadership we need AND backs it up
- Re-sign Beauner, Winnik, Comeau
- Sign a solid #3D that can anchor the 2nd pairing, an impact player
- Sign a solid 2nd line LW with hands