Debacle? That's somewhat hyperbolic, don't you think?
Gauthier was a bad situation they inherited, but let's be honest, he's not exactly playing lights out, 40g 3-9 12 (ES), that's marginal 3rd line production from a guy who isn't known for defense or physical play. I'm sure he'll improve, but he's looking like a finesse version of Tippett. So getting Drysdale and a high 2nd isn't a bad return, especially since Drysdale is playing a lot better since he returned.
Hathaway is a nothing burger, basically resigned b/c they had no wings on the verge of the NHL last summer and wanted some veteran depth. Same as the veterans on short-term deals signed by every other rebuilding team. Seeler cost them what? a 4th rd pick. He's there to caddy young RHDs, his NTC expires next summer and if the kids are alright, he's gone.
The "abundance" of talent comes down to Buium. We'll see how he and Jett turn out in the NHL.
You got a problem with York (14), Foerster (23), Brink (34), Andrae (53), Michkov (7), the high picks under Flahr? Only miss so far in 1st & 2nd rds is Tuomaala, who can score but will need years to understand how to play off the puck.
Berglund made the Swedish team before he was hurt, and Ruohonen the Finnish squad.
I realize they are weaker squads than Canada, and weren't very competitive.