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[QUOTE=EverfresH15;7505848]

Originally Posted by JTech780

IMO the biggest need for this team going into next year is down the middle, not on RW. I am absolutely fine with Gaudreau, Lindholm, Tkachuk and Mangiapane being the top 6 wingers on this team for next season, or if we trade Gaudreau and sign Hall so be it.

Monahan is a solid producing centerman, and Backlund is a very good all around center. If we could get another center it would make our top 9 more dangerous.

Now if it was Strome, and I agree he has plenty of warts, but I don't think his acquisition cost will be that high, Chicago has cap issues and they have Dach who is ready to take over as the #2 center on that team. We could put Strome with Tkachuk and Mangiapane, which would put Backlund on a 2nd line with Lucic and Dube. If there is a center on this team that would be able to get the most out of Lucic it would be Backlund, he has a great ability to get the most out of his linemates.

It isn't a great fit, and I would rather target a top 6 center in return for Gaudreau, whether that be Necas, Frost, Cozens, or Newhook.

One guy that could be available is Lars Eller, Washington is going to be looking to get rid of cap and they have Connor McMichael who will be ready to play in the NHL next year. Eller has 3 more years at $3.5m, he is an effective 3rd line center who can play up the lineup if there are injuries.

Also if Erik Haula makes it to free agency he is a guy who can play down the middle and can still skate.[/QUOTE

Why would Washington give up an elite center man?

Because Eller is not close to being elite and is 31 years old?