This deal absolutely is better value for the Preds. Staal id still an all-star albeit in a terrible situation. For me, this was about addressing a specific desire for a strong 2-way center. There just are not that many of them in the league, at least compared to scoring centres. Staal was a redundant piece with backstrom and stastny. I don't mind over paying when I'm targeting a specific player for specifc reasons.
All that said, kesler is in a fantastic situation with the ducks. If healthy he should put up 65 points and be a +100. (Because everyone on the ducks seems to be). Wouldn't be surprised if kesler and Staal had the same rating next year.
__________________
All hockey players are bilingual. They know English and profanity - Gordie Howe
|