This is the key age range to keep guys. I'm not sure why we'd be looking to move any of them. All of them could be more than they are now.
Like many hockey arguments this is a semantics argument when you boil it down. It comes down to how you want to use the term "core". I could see some of these players not being considered "core" players if you have a narrow definition of it but that doesn't mean they won't stick around and be valuable pieces of our team.
Backlund is definitely core to me. He's established himself as a 2/3 centre who can slot in nicely as our 3rd line centre behind Monahan/Bennett while being able to fill in on the top two lines if we get injuries.
Bouma is definitely core to me. His work ethic, physical play, shot blocking all set the tone for us. He is an ideal 3rd liner IMO but can move up if you need.
Colborne is a guy that brings size and strength in a lineup that features several small forwards like Hudler, Gaudreau and Byron. He has versatility playing C and W. He has decent speed and good hands for a big guy. I think he has room to improve. Can be a 3rd liner but could improve himself to a very useful 2nd line winger with size.
Shore we haven't seen much from yet. But he does bring size, excellent skating and is a rare RH shot. Management is high on him and supposedly a lot of teams were asking about him at the deadline. He could be a key part going forward, we'll see.
Byron is most replaceable is many ways IMO. But his speed and tenacity do help set the tone. Skating is key to our forecheck style.
I'd like to keep all of them personally. Treliving will have some interesting decisions. I think keeping the majority of this age range is important. It's almost more likely we move someone like Granlund in a bigger deal than move someone to make room for him.
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