One of the best threats and most effective PKers in the league, best net front guy in the league, his line (up until this year thanks to Mika) always generates more than they give up. There's no need to choose between one or the other. The kids can still play and grow, it's kinda happening as we speak. Who is he preventing from doing anything?
Kreider is not good at 5on 5. He just isnt. He is good off the rush but thats about it.
He is great at pk, and net front. But for me 5on5 is more important.
I would even go as far as saying trading him and smith and replacing them with berard and othmann the tram wouldn't miss a beat.
The Pp would be fine bc we have alot of weapons, and i think Kakko can step up on the PK.
And we would probably be better 5on5 or at least no worse than what that line is already.
And if we dont win more, who cares, bc this team as constructed aint winning shit.