Chayka did a long Q&A with Morgan. I just skimmed it, but some key takeaways:
- Chayka says there is a lot of "inventory" in talks right now -- most discussions he's ever had at the deadline
- Describes the team's defensive depth, particularly in Tucson, as attractive assets; a lot of teams looking for young defensemen
- Sounds like he's thinking about another Hossa/Bolland type move at some point, maybe in the summer when cap floor is an issue?
- Looking to acquire a player with term
- Not looking to get a rental UFA unless he thinks he can sign that player
- Looking to add to the group, not really looking to subtract
- Says Hayton is the best 200-foot center outside of the NHL right now
That 4th point is most interesting I think. I wouldn't describe a pending RFA (like Burakovsky) as a player "with term". So who's he looking at? The only teams that will be moving valuable players with term are the bottom feeders. Maybe someone like Hoffman??