Yeah, Torts is on the clock here, but not until 2026 really. All jokes, funny or not, all the eggs are in this basket essentially. Unless Michkov is just total ass, he will win that struggle because this front office can’t afford to not have Michkov be That Guy at this point. He will be their central marketing figure, the franchise player.
Unfortunately or fortunately - if he comes now - this changes everything. I want a tear down (TK, Risto, Laughton gone etc etc) - but now I don't know if you want it to be a dumpster fire on arrival.
A week ago I would have traded TK - I genuinely don't know what I'd do now. I don't know what Matvei's expectations are in terms of competing, was he promised a competitive team? Did he see the standings and want to be a part of it? I genuinely don't know.
I have to imagine he instantly makes the PP more dangerous, he'll impact 5v5 scoring, 3v3 gets better (yay!!)
In our division alone...you could make the case that Carolina, Washington, Pittsburgh will take a step back next year. -Probably the Rangers-, and maybe the Isles. I anticipate the Devils come back strong, and you figure Columbus maybe improves.
There's a very real opening to compete all season long for the 3rd spot in the Metro. I think both WC's go to the Atlantic, I bet Buffalo, Ottawa, and Montreal are improved next year, in an already good division.
It's fools good - but if you add Michkov to this roster, remove some deadweight - this teams range is around 83-92 points.
Whoever they take at 12 is so important. They need that to hit.