I just see little room for Russell on this team, even absent Wideman. I don't want to pay a guy with third pairing minutes that much money if I have a choice. I like Kevin's game a bit better and I think Engelland and Smid are a better third pairing. If Smid can't go I think there are guys on the farm who would be better suited for low minutes.
I like Russell's heart but I think his flaws at zone exits are a huge issue.
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