So our left Ds in two years are Werenski, Mateychuk, and ? JMFJ? Let’s say we trade Marchenko for a similar left D - someone along the lines of Fehervary - similar draft position in 2018, some NHL experience etc. Then we can run a left side of Werenski, Provorov, Fehervary and not rush Mateychuk. We trade Provorov at the deadline and replace him with JMFJ and maybe Mateychuk (if he earns it). Then start next season with Werenski, Fehervary, Mateychuk. If Mateychuk passes Fehervary then great. Meanwhile, which wing gets squeezed out when Lindstrom is on this team in 2025-26? Who is Brindley replacing?
Again, I like Marchenko. He is my favorite Russian. But he hasn’t earned the money some people are suggesting. If he is going to cost $5 million, there are other options, like Sprong on the cheap and bringing in a legit young NHL left D.