Don't think they had the assets to get that impact center. That was a topic that was discussed over and over again.
Regardless, A true rebuild for me is core pieces in place as well as the depth behind them to support it. Otherwise, you are forced to fill holes with trades and UFA and that can create cap issues. Ask the Leafs and Oilers.
I think we are in a very good spot. If guys like Slaf, Hutson, Demidov (Add Dach to that list as well) support this core as legit top of the line-up assets, this team is going to be a top 10 or top 5 contender. The depth behind the core is unreal IMO.
Will be interesting to monitor Dach's progression as a top 2C. Lets say he struggles to play at that high level game/game, what does our management do? Do we try Demidov at center?