My point is that it is possible that Zadorov could start in the AHL next season after "proving that he belongs in the NHL" this year. Similar to what some thought of Pysyk.
This is how I feel about next season:
"Sabres, Please Let This Be It"
I want Tim Murray to use all his cap space next season to add so much depth that it forces the kids who are exempt from waivers to either have to kick ass to earn the job on a "winning NHL team" or get sent to the AHL. The depth this provides is good for winning teams when injuries arise or a prospect is too good for the AHL (think Pominville at the beginning of his career and the team he joined).
Then I'll refer you to Zero's post, I misunderstood.
I'd agree with you if we were a couple pieces from a cup run, but we need more development on top of additional pieces through trade/UFA. If we sign a boatload of free agents, with Murray using "all his cap space"...it poses the threat of a cap crunch when guys like Risto, Zadorov, Girgensons, etc are going to need new contracts, especially considering Risto and Girgs are a year away from RFA, Zads 2. We also need to resign Pysyk and Grigs this offseason, but I don't think that'll cost too much, but it may in a year or 2 after if we sign them to 1 year prove-yourself deals. If none of our goalie prospects get to where we want them to, it'll make shopping for a starter more difficult as well.
I think we need one forward, one defenseman, and one goalie...and with them sheltering the rookies and development going where we want it, I don't think it'll be enough for playoffs next season...but I don't think that's the goal. In terms of that article, I can't see us completely tanking next year if those tweaks are made...more of a middling team on the rise