I know we don't like to discuss it, but I do wonder if the Russell signing has made Nurse expendable.
If so, this stretch to start the year without Sekera will be a terrific opportunity to showcase his potential:
Klefbom-Larsson
Nurse-Russell
UFA-Benning
Oesterle
By the time Sekera returns, you theoretically have given Darnell 10-15 games of premium ice-time. Assuming he shows well, what could we get for him- that coveted RW for McDavid? An older, right-handed puck mover?
Otherwise, I just don't see a way Nurse fits long-term with this group as anything more than a #5 given how our top four is now locked up for several years minimum. Even if Russell is moved in two, you still have Jones and Bear to slot in. I have to think this signing was made with that in mind.