I was so impressed with Honka watching him closely in the WCHs. He scored an OT goal for Dallas in the NHL, someone should embed that video. The kid is pretty sick. I was worried that his play in the AHL would set back his puckmoving game a bit, but it's been the opposite.
I've given hope for Trouba, but who knows. Trouba also played in the WCHs -- some experts really questioned him. I didn't see much of the US, a good ex D expert for Swedish TV said something like "It's surprising -- given his play in the WCHs -- that Trouba is seen as a star in the NHL. He haven't been impressive here". I just think there are many strong aspects of his game, albeit he still might have some rough areas.
I love Troy Stecher in Vancouver. Van will be a mess the coming years and that's always hard for young Ds, to get shelled every night. But I think he has potential to be the type that is everyone's darling in just a few years. Elusive skater that is hard to catch, very strong with the puck under pressure, very good offensive skills.
Not saying the above will be available. Think Dallas has a guy in Klingberg that just can take all offensive RD minutes. It just don't think it makes a ton of sense for them to have a real 1-way O defensemen like Honka behind him when the entire lineup is a mess in other areas. But who knows, NHL GMs usually are contentment with putting a flawed product on the ice. Chevy can sit around doing nothing with Trouba, wouldn't surprise me one bit. Vancouver has a ton of holes up front, defense don't look that horrible with Edler, Tanev and the Finn. Would they deal Stecher for a good young forward? I would give hat up for him.
Who else might even remotely be available? Cody Ceci? He isn't as horrible as many claim. Actually played some good hockey when I saw him this season. But he was definitely the Sens D struggling the most under hard pressure against us. I am just listing potential names here.
Who else? Winnipeg has three RDs. I've mentioned Tyler Myers. Would of course need to get clearance from the docs on him. But if you could get that? He was -- much -- better for Winnipeg than Buffalo. I actually think he potentially could be a great fit next to McDonagh who is so strong individually and gives his partner so much support. Myers is very good as long as nobody get a step on him. Heavy RH shoot. Not a bad passer. Could see him stepping into a lot of scoring chances blasting heavy bombs next to McD. And do really well with his 6'8 reach defensively next to McD. Skating is a concern and if he is playing with a bum back -- he could fall off a cliff. Not a horrible contract if he can play up to his capacity.
I can't think of many other RDs... We can't be choosy...but no to Shatty...
