What's up, guys. With the current landscape of the world, and by extension, sports world, on hold, I thought this would be an interesting spot to have a discussion on the state of the franchise- both current and in the future. Mods, feel free to merge this with another thread if you feel it isn't thread-worthy on its own.
Staff:
1) Do you want Tom Fitzgerald to remain GM. If not, then who?
Yes, though Dean Lombardi would be fun, so we could say "do it Dean!". Gillis would be an interesting hire. He has some new ideas it seems, from that article about him that many have read here.
2) Do you want Alain Nasreddine to remain Head Coach? If not, then who?
I think he did a pretty admirable job as an interim, but if Gallant is interested you have to hire him. I've always liked Guy Boucher, but I doubt they will hire him.
3) Do you want Paul Castron to remain as Director of Scouting?
Absolutely! Though it seems he's better with later picks than first rounders. Not sure why. But please do whatever it takes to keep him.
Currently in the organization:
4) Who should be the next captain?
Going out on a limb here, Subban!
5) Based on what we know now, do you think the Hischier and Hughes duo is good enough to contend?
It's too soon to tell. There has to be more around them, for certain.
6) Did Hughes's rookie season temper his future outlook in your eyes?
Yes. My view of his ceiling has lessened, as I no longer see him as borderline generational. Still could be a perennial all star though. Time will tell.
7) Would you support Pavel Zacha in the 3C role next season?
Sure, though he might fit better on someone's wing, depending on roster.
8) Does Jesper Bratt play consistently in a top 6 role going forward?
Top three lines, not necessarily top two. Again, depends on roster.
9) Should the Devils re-sign Kyle Palmieri to a new deal next year?
Depends on what he wants, and if a crazy offer comes our way for a trade. He's very streaky, and he doesn't really fit the time line. I do like him though, and he's pretty much a Jerseyan.
10) Is Mackenzie Blackwood the Devils starting goalie in 5 years?
He should be, unless they draft Askarov.
11) Which defensemen leads the team in toi next season?
Pietrangelo I hope, but pipe dream. Severson.
13) Which prospect (less than 50 GP in the NHL) do you think becomes a key contributor in the next 3 years?
Ty Smith
The Draft
14) Assuming the top three goes as expected (Lafrenniere, Byfield, Stutzle), who do you want at #6?
Drysdale, then Rossi.
15) Would you support the decision to take Jake Sanderson with the Coyotes pick at #10?
Not especially. I think there are better options there.
16) Would you support the decision to take Yaroslav Askarov with Vancouver's pick at #17?
Not my favorite option, but it wouldn't kill me.
Miscellaneous
17) If given the option, should the Devils utilize a compliance buyout? If yes, then who?
I'd rather not. I'm one of the few that think Cory can be good enough to be backup.