[Imported_Aussie]

The other thing with Stastny is that he would not be a true #2 centre, but would help solve that spot by committee, and can also slot in on the LW. I, like many here, am hoping that Pelletier is that 3rd line LW, but he is not a lock by any means, and playing Stastny with Monahan or Ruzicka is an option too

if you cannot afford a true #2 centre either as a high priced UFA (Kadri) or unavailable/prohibitive trade cost (Hintz, Hartman, Stephenson, etc.) then you need to cover your bases.

Monahan recovered from injury would be a #2 centre, and if back to 100% (which he may never reach) is even a fringe #1 centre. But he could also be replacement level if he is not recovering well

Ruzicka shows promise and has great size, but is not a #2 centre yet, nor may ever be. I do think he projects as an average #3 centre at least though, but may need time and patience

Zary needs another AHL year, so is not part of the conversation this year. Same as Ruzicka though, not there yet, may never be, and for a team that wants to contend now, guys like him performing are bonuses that allow you to trade from strength, not things you bank on

Stastny is not going to be a #2 centre, but he at least shows he can put up secondary scoring and win faceoffs, and would allow the flames to roll two solid middle 6 lines irrespective of whether Monahan recovers or if a young guy steps up.

Haven't included Dube here as he has seen more time as a winger, but he could play centre. I do think he is better on the wing, called into centre when needed.