I agree with most of the discussion in this tread that we could use and upgrade over our current top 9 wings. The only problem I see is with this team health and playing well I’m not sure we need anything, that is unless we can turn Brouwer into something better for the Jankowski line. I actually think Brouwer is fine with Backlund but he likely gets bumped when Frolik gets back, I’m not sure this is the best for the team but wouldn’t hate it if it happened. I really do see this team able to go deep with maybe one more impact forward and that doesn’t mean a big contract but a player who helps of fixes one of our holes.
Holes that I see in order of need to fix are the power play, Brouwer on the 4th line and Hathaway on the 3rd line. I believe our power play is missing Versteeg and therefore I would target finding a replacement for him. Hopefully this player also fixes the other issues of Brouwer and Hathaway. I don’t hate Brouwer or think he is a problem but do see his contract and need for someone else to drive his line being the problem with him on the 4th line. Hathaway is a good player and helps drive his line but I can’t help but feel the flames would be deeper and have a better chance of going far in the playoffs if he drove the 4th line.
The players I would target in order are Simmons, Vanek and Spezza off the top of my head. I can’t think of anyone else who wouldn’t cost more than I’m willing to pay or would disrupt the team chemistry too much.
Just my thoughts and I value comments. I will likely follow this up with my lineup preferences and assets I would be willing to give up as well as not give up.
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