I would sign both Elliott and Johnson to 1 year deal for combined 5 mil or less. Hopefully less. I think Johnson deserves a raise and Elliott a 2nd crack. Committing to them 1 more year for this cheap allows Gillies another year in the AHL as well allows us to continue to build up front. To me the biggest issue with the team is the Bennett line. Backlund line as been amazing and Monahan and Gaudreau have been more dangerous since Johnny came back. The 4th line has been great too but you can't expect much scoring from them. Bennett's line has consistently been invisible in the offensive end.
We also need to improve the defense after the big 3
Goaltending can wait one more year and I believe a 2nd year with the same tandem may improve our goaltending as well
With Bennett on pace for 40 points I see a bridge deal worth around 3.5. Spending 5 or less on the goaltending would give us options to give Bennett more help on his line and another year in the league and a short term deal hopefully he breaks out with the motivation of getting a big contract. I don't see Ferland getting a huge amount with his recent goal drought and none of the RFA's will demand huge raises. By spending less than 5 on Elliott and Johnson and bridging Bennett I could see 6-7 million to spend on a 2nd line player or top 4 dman. To me that is more important if you can find the right fit at that price
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