Pens lack of depth is an issue, So trading multiple players for a single return is an issue. The team wasn't far off & by getting knocked out for the first time in 3 years, having a good holiday & getting back into it, it may be the biggest key in more success.
My biggest concern is Sully. Teams shouldn't trade good players if better players aren't coming back (or they're rebuilding). On ice results drive organisations, Not back room character clashes(or at least they shouldn't), so unless a (frank)ing great player is coming back I really hope Phil isn't going anywhere. Similarly can be said for Maatta - please note I said 'similar'. Maybe Hunwick gets another shot & fits in this time. I really believe trading Brassard is a key move as long as a 4th C can be signed - ie: Derek Ryan. He could get a good player coming back & really, having Sheahan playing 3C, it's pretty good. Or trade Sheahan for something good (if possible), & keep Brassard. Hopefully JR signs a bottom 6 winger or 2 from FA that gives a little more depth - & gives throw in options in any trade.
- Aussiepenguin
I kinda agree with trading Brassard (I would trade him over Sheahan because he will be getting a raise after this season and probably won't stay). Maybe take a shot w/ Brassard for Patches. I also agree with not trading Kessel. I have read a few articles about the cup winners of recent and depth is becoming the key. They also talked about how we don't have good depth like we did the previous years. Also I think signing cheap options may help us. Hartnell, Stafford, Vanek, Comeau, or even Plekanec. I wouldn't mind signing Derek Ryan. I think they trade Hagelin and Sheary for some extra cap room and I hope they trade for some of these cheaper options and use ZAR, Rust, and Sprong on the 3rd and 4th lines.
My dream would be:
Guetzel - Crosby - Hornqvist
Van Riemsdyk, Vanek, Patches or trade option - Malkin - Kessel
Rust - Sheahan - Sprong
Hartnell - Ryan - ZAR
Use Brassard for a 2nd line winger or in a package for an upgrade on Defense