A few names I'll throw out with varying success thus far...
Boedker (PHO) - don't know that he could be had but fits the mold and is a clear top 6 upgrade. Also doesn't have the stats Eberle does and may not cost as much?
Korpikoski (PHO) - Hasn't shown the hands but has the speed and smarts (especially defensively) to fit in. Could just be another middle 6 guy although more size and speed than 1/2 our roster.
Jaskin (STL) - Lacks experience (just made partial NHL jump last year) but has the size and skill set to be a top 6 wing quickly. Comes from a system that is likely similar to CBJ. Smart, skilled and size. Can play the game fast but not a burner.
Paajarvi (STL) - great skater and shooter but has struggled to find the back of the net (easy to see with his lack of points). Could a bigger role in Columbus push him to his top 6 potential.
Palmeiri (ANA) - High offensive upside but may be stuck behind several in Anaheim. excellent skater and hockey IQ. Needs experience but getting it on a good team in Anaheim.
Silfverberg (ANA) - most know I really like this kid. Decent size, excellent offensive instincts, already plays sound 2-way game and gaining experience.
These are all players from the Western Conference. If time permits I throw out some ideas from the East later on. Only Boedker and Silfverberg may be high level acquisitions but I'm keeping players like Anisimov, Atkinson, Tyutin, Rychel, Dano and even Bjorkstrand in mind. none of the players above are older than 24 so sacrificing some younger players may not impact too greatly.
Just some thoughts and ideas... anyone have feedback? Yay? Nay?
Paajarvi has shown nothing and was a healthy scratch all year. Not sure why you think he has top six upside, if anything, he has KHL upside.
Korpikospki will be 28 at the beginning of next season and is just a guy, there's no more potential or upside to unlock there.
Jaskin is a prospect St. Louis is high and is just starting out in his development, I can't see them parting with him now unless it's part of a deal for an in-his-prime player who can help them advance now, which I don't think is something the CBJ can offer.
Palmeiri doesn't have top line winger upside, if anything he's more of a secondary guy at best, but we already have Dubie, Foligno, Horton, etc.
Boedker is 24, was taken 8th overall, and just had is breakout season. He'd look nice as our top line right winger, but Phoenix has no reason to trade him especially if as you say, you don't want to part with much value...
I agree we need to find a top flight winger, like Eberle, but it's going to cost something. I would like to say the days of bargain hunting for the guys you are talking about, or Hack Skille, are over.
I really don't get the Jakub Silfverberg thing. Possibly the second most puzzling thing on this thread next to "pay Iginla $8 million to come here" thing.
Food for thought for all those who never want to trade anyone or any pick.
