I remember Sutter going out of his way to praise the way Montréal built their team last year and it was a very interesting look into Darryl’s mind. I think in a way, the Canadiens’ formula mirrors the way Darrl wants to build his team as well and Gudbranson is a major cog in the machine.
I know the cap will be tight, heck, I’ve been complaining about it endlessly for months. But I don’t see how the Flames don’t re-sign this guy with the season he’s having. An extension likely comes with a raise and maybe extra years attached, but he might be too important for the team to let go. Keeping him will likely come at the cost of someone else, but it might be necessary.
With Toffoli’s contract on the payroll for next season now, Monahan along with someone else’s contract will likely have to go. A Lucic move may be necessary too but I don’t think he’s trade-able nor do I think a buy out saves very much at all, so that might not even be an option. I suppose that leaves Dube and/or Hanifin as the other prime contracts that may not to be moved to build out the rest of the team.
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