Washington’s “4th line” was usually 2nd or 3rd in ice time for them. I’m almost certain 90% of the people lambasting this trade will change their tune once they see Beck play.
I hope Malenstyn actually is what the scouting staff thinks he is, which would give Lindy a guy to play the role Miles Wood did for him in Jersey, 10/15/25, PK, speed, hard forecheck and sand.
TBH I had thought they'd maybe try to pry Nic Dowd who ticks a few more boxes as a faceoff-taking right-shot 4C but listening to KA and Forton it sounds like they wanted someone more in line with the age group of the core. Dowd is 34 and could be a deadline type of add - if they ever get to that position to be buyers.
The counter to the trade is valid, though. Guys to play the role of a Miles Wood can be had in FA, where you can get, for instance, Miles Wood for 6/$15m like Colorado paid, provided the guy will sign with you.