I don't think we should be wasting time with bottom-six forwards, or even middle-six forwards. Go big or go home.
There should be guys not qualified who can compete for a bottom-six forward role with the guys we already have. We might be able to acquire one via trade. I am encouraged by the reports of Eller's name being out there (FINALLY!).
I was looking at the Kings lineup yesterday. They probably need two top-six wingers now, one to replace Arvidsson and one to replace Byfield (who likely replaces Dubois at center).
I can't see how Reilly Smith to LA cannot happen. It has to happen.
AND, a message to Dubas:
- if you have to acquire forwards to provide depth (most likely for the AHL), make sure that they are not Sullivan-types. Jansen Harkins is a major no-no. But if Dominik Kubalik is willing to take a cheap, two-way contract...Sullivan would hate this player!
The more guys Sullivan hates we bring in, the greater our chances of Puustinen, Poulin, Ponomarev, Yager, Koivunen, Puljujarvi et al sticking! This is what we are now reduced to...bringing in players the coach hates. Seems counter-productive, but instead it is genius.
Lastly, I may be the only one who would keep Bemstrom if he would take the Puustinen deal. If not, send him to the UFA bin and see what happens.