while it is hard to predict which team will win the Cup, Canes mgmt. should assess why the team has failed to advance deep in the playoffs the past three seasons. Boston, NYR and Tampa exposed our teams in the past. The roster on paper is not as good as last year's team and the NYR figured out we could be pushed around and hacked because our PP was way too predictable. Boston also physically bullied us the year prior. Deadline trades recently have not proven to be difference makers, Domi's game 7 goal aside.
My argument is there are players, aside from deadline rentals, that are difference makers for this roster. I hope the Canes ignore ROR, Towes, Kane, and other pending UFA except Tarasenko. He can still score and would likely sign an extension here. That allows for Necas to move to C next season. If its Meier, the cost will be expensive but if mgmt. really believes the PP and 5x5 scoring will greatly benefit from him playing here, they essentially have to pay the price. The opportunity to play in the SCF is worth the price IMO. Will any serious fan of the Canes be satisfied with another 2nd round exit from this team? I don't think so.
Horvat was there for the taking except they could not negotiate an extension. My guess is Horvat would sign here particularly if the team were to advance to conference or SC finals. I understand Canes' position on Horvat trade. Canucks did not need pre negotiated extension to trade him for solid return. If Meier is the guy, then it will cost the Canes in terms of assets (Debrincat trade sets the value). Can't have the Devils or NYR acquire him and beat us in the playoffs.