We have 11 million to play with right now and honestly not much in the way of major signings. I'm convinced we could rehome Russell for a comparable forward in the Sutter or Perreault mold.
Bear needs a deal but he will be bridged around 2.5 mil IMO. We're not going to spend 8 mil on a 1B goalie and a 3C. I guess I just don't really understand the desperation for cap space, it's not like we're hunting big fish this offseason anyway.
True but if we are bringing Pulju back, or upgrading on Chaisson/Ennis, we're going to need every $$$ we can get.
Though I do agree with you. I'd keep AA as my $3M unidimensional 3rd line winger. Get the best two-way 3C I can find, part ways with Chaisson and have Pulju on our third line until he can challenge for a top-6 role.
Then I'd spend the rest on a 1B goalie and have Neal/a revolving door on McDrai's left wing. That sucks in the short term, but it can be addressed at the TDL.
XXX McD Kassian
Nuge Drai Yamo
AA UFA (Haula?) Pulju
Khaira Haas Archibald
XXX = Neal, Benson, Nygard
Trade: Russell, Chaisson, and sure... maybe Benning. Use whatever money we gain to upgrade the D.