birdie03,
I'm a CBJ fan, but I'm not even close to being qualified to have an opinion about who the team should go after in free agency. From what I read and hear the UFA's out there that could help the CBJ are very few other than Tavaras. His list of five teams is insane IMO, does he really think he can come closer to getting $8 mil a year with the Pens?
If he does not want $10 mil from Columbus and the chance to play for a cup here what can be done?
All I know is that we need offense, offense that does not disappear in the playoffs, and the right people on all three d-pairs that can help bob finally be good enough to win some playoff series. If there are UFA's that can help the management will have to find and sign them. If they are not out there then management is going to have find another way to get them here.
- jkumpire
I certainly don't have the qualifications either - but as a fan I can offer my opinion . . . sometimes to stir the pot on this blog. And I also agree that we need offense beyond Panarin. He pulled 82 points while always attracting at least 2 defenders. The CBJ have NEVER had a player with that ability.
If I was JK, I would try to get Panarin signed, although it will probably take about $9.5MM AAV for 8 years. With the cap going up that shouldn't be a problem. Also, sign Bob for $8 - 8.5MM for 7 yrs. That removes an additional $4.5MM from the cap.
Give Werenski a solid bridge deal @ $3.5MM/yr for 2 years.
Offer Ian Cole 3yr @ $2.5/yr.
If Jarmo does score a big trade, then Jenner and/or Murray may be part of it.
Now I'm seeing "rumors" that the CBJ are interested in bringing back Rick Nash and John Moore. I don't see what either of them would have to offer that the Jackets don't already have.