Liked Hall, thought he was a gamer, he wanted to win. He bought into what they were doing here, playing any role he was given. With more opportunity, think he can still produce better numbers than the last couple seasons. Believe that could have happened here in the upcoming season. So first glance, not happy he's gone. Understand they need the cap space, but didn't think they would go with Hall being a Cap dump.
Thought their wingers were still a huge advantage upfront with Hall, Marchand, DeBrusk, and Pasta. Makes a strong top 6 even with weaker centers.
Saying this, the offseason is far from over. With this move, still do not think the Bruin's are bowing out next year, and plan on being competitive. How exactly, not sure, but Sweeney seems to be pretty creative. Until training camp starts not going to waste time being bothered.
Will say though, if the idea is getting rid of Hall for Bertuzzi, think Hall is better. Don't trust Bertuzzi's injury history or his all round game. His defensive game here was a disaster. Plus his cap hit will probably be north of 6M. And if it's not Bertuzzi, he's going to have to bring in another good forward, or this is obviously just a huge downgrade.
Interested to see how this all unfolds.