Is this RFA that was the 2007 10th overall pick a bust or just a victim of a numbers game? In 117 NHL games he has 2 goals and 15 assists and is -19.

While he hasn't shown much offensively, he has shown flashes of being very responsible at both ends of the ice. He is a good skater with average puck handling ability, but in all fairness has not been given a true chance to prove his worth as a professional.

The argument against him is rookie Erik Gudbranson came in and flat out took his job. Making matters worse Tyson Strachan was called up mid-season due to injuries and looked better in 15 games than Ellerby has looked most of his career.

However, Ellerby is only 23 years old and may have more developing to do. At 6'5", 220 lbs., he has good size and could have what it takes to be a top-4 defenseman in the future. His $787,500 salary last year is certainly affordable for anyone in the league that lacks depth on the blue line. The Panthers have abundance in that area.

Of all the players on the Panthers roster, Ellerby looks like the most likely defensive casualty of the welcomed numbers game Dale Tallon has created. Does Tallon resign him cheap for depth or would your team send a cheap offer sheet his way to see if they can add depth, and maybe a possible starter, at a low price?

Twitter @DanSpiegel

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