I could see the following scenario play out. Still doesn't give the Rangers a 4th line option that's proven or reliable, and same with PK upfront.
- Names goes as a cap dump with a LHD prospect. -$4M
- Fast goes to AV for a 3rd & 2020 7th + another conditional 2020 7th.
- Shattenkirk & Smith are mentoring kids in HFD or "Re-Habbing"
- Rangers hold onto Kreider till the deadline- cash in on a 1st and a prospect, or straight up 2020
Kreider-Zibs-Kakko. Size-Speed-Skill. Power Forward options 5v5 nightmare, all play the PP. Zibs PKs.
Bread-Howden-Kravstov. Bread lead the best rush offense in the NHL last year. You give him two north south forwards with size that can create space and tee off timers. Howden acts as the back-checking defensive prences. Kravstov is a gifted passer, as is Bread. They can both crank it. A set up like this has worked for Bread in Chicago & CLB. It also maximizes two kids offensively. Howden is also good on face-offs, and allows Quinny to run plays off of faceoffs. Bread & Kravstov play the PP. Howden PKs.
Chytil-Strome-Buch. Buch and Chytil have chemistry. I think a 3rd wave of size, speed and offensive skill is going to create offensive mismatches. Strome acts as a playmaker and defensive presence for the two. I think this line could be a defensive liability, so it will be up to the coaches to keep preaching hard backchecks. That said, I think this unit can attack off the rush and cycle well enough to generate a bunch of shots. Have Buch and Chytil drive hard to the net, and you'll get 2nd and 3rd chance offense. Chytil & Buch are on the PP. Strome PKs.
Lemmie-Lias-O'Regan. Probably the riskiest line. What version of Lias are we getting? I think playing with Lemmie helps Lias out. I saw a more passionate and engaged Lias next to Lemmie. Lias played with a chip on his shoulder, and was effective on the forecheck as a pestering option. I also think that Lias might be beyond the AHL level at this stage in terms of ability, but hasn't found a role in the NHL. Lias needs to embrace a two-way checking role where he gets in guys faces. Really hope he has a great off-season of training and comes in stronger with an extra step. I want to see Lems embrace being a pest, but come into camp maybe 10-15 pounds lighter to skate faster and longer. I think O'Regan will surprise. He's going to play the role of coach's boy. This is a heart and soul guy who gives it his all, and has killed penalties before. He had a great first year pro as an all situations center. I'm hoping he can be a poor man's Luke Glendending. Lias and Father O'Regan are on the PK.
McKegger. Keeps the taps full.