I've always liked Pageau but as a great guy on a contender. Something like the Penguins have been with their 1-2 punch, Boston or Washington. He's not like Kelly was in style but that type of reliable 3rd liner who can step up at times at centre or wing and might even surprise for a few games. In the long run he won't make enough of a difference on a young team like the Sens or Montreal. He could help Toronto but would it be enough?
As a pending UFA his next contract might be reaching too high so a team might only want him for a playoff run which would diminish his trade value. After that it's probably a hard sell if he expects more than his current deal amount or a very long term. He's kind of a tweener that's hard to price but I don't see long term value for the rebuilding Sens. If the Sens see him as a mentor or as setting a good example for the younger players that's fine but if you don't need the contract to meet the floor then why block a younger guy who might be the next "Kelly or Pageau" at a far cheaper price. As the team progresses save the dollars spent on signing any $4M+ 3rd liners and try to find a top 3 guy who can really make a difference.
As a pending UFA his next contract might be reaching too high so a team might only want him for a playoff run which would diminish his trade value. After that it's probably a hard sell if he expects more than his current deal amount or a very long term. He's kind of a tweener that's hard to price but I don't see long term value for the rebuilding Sens. If the Sens see him as a mentor or as setting a good example for the younger players that's fine but if you don't need the contract to meet the floor then why block a younger guy who might be the next "Kelly or Pageau" at a far cheaper price. As the team progresses save the dollars spent on signing any $4M+ 3rd liners and try to find a top 3 guy who can really make a difference.