Quote:
Originally Posted by getbak
That would help the expansion teams build a prospect base rather than just loading up on NHL veteran third-liners who they force into first-line roles like we've seen in past expansions.
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Frankly, I think a team composed entirely of the pick of the litter NHL veteran third-liners + whatever UFA's they can sign + plus the 1st/2nd overall pick they'll no doubt be gifted wouldn't be entirely unrespectable. Probably better then what the Sabres put out there last year anyways.
Maybe do a double draft. Establish some criteria that establishes who is an NHL player and who is a developmental player. Have one draft for each with the same number of protection slots (unsigned draft picks and signed draft picks 20 year of age or younger are exempt). Allow teams to "trade" slots between the two levels (so rebuilding teams can protect more developmental players at the risk of their NHL roster, teams that are trying to "win now" can protect their NHL roster at the expense of their system).