If I had to rate the top forwards under Sutter:
1. Lindholm
2. Gaudreau
3. Monahan
4. Tkachuk
Since a rebuild isn't likely going a happen, what's the best way to re-tool?
Gaudreau struggled at first, but has looked better over the last 10 games like Sutter has recently said. Him and Lindholm have looked good together, I don't see an effort issue like some have said. Not saying that Gaudreau is untouchable (no one on this team is), but I'm not sure you get better by dealing a talent like Gaudreau. If what Steinberg is saying is true about him wanting to re-sign here and it can be done at a reasonable price, I would consider it and look to move Monahan and Tkachuk. But if I had to guess I think him and Monahan will probably be dealt because of their ages.
With Monahan, I think his attention to detail on D has been better under Sutter, and he's been praised for his effort and commitment. But even with those things I just don't think he's good enough. See if you can package him in a deal for a better center or a similar caliber player with a different skillset.
If Tkachuk isn't dealt, he might have to see a sports psychologist because he's looked like a completely different player after the Muzzin incident and hasn't handled the high-pressure situations well. Even in games when he is producing, he hasn't been an impact player at all this year. Not winning battles below the hash marks like he used to and consistently making. Biggest disappointment for me as he hasn't responded at all under Sutter.
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