This is a pretty good assessment and you’re probably thinking how management is thinking as well, the two things that kinda make me think it’s not a sure thing is that while what Kulak has done is commendable I think you have to seriously consider if he can keep this type of play up throughout a long series, though as you said their target will likely be able to share in those 2RD minutes with him as needed. The other thing I wonder about is whether they’d prefer someone with a bit more puck moving ability as that seems to have been the key to elevating Nurse and it kinda seems that way as they’ve preferred either Kulak or Stetcher there instead of giving Emberson more looks.
In the end I think you are right about the type of defender they want and I’d say in that case a solid target (who’s not a sexy name and will probably have people around here bitching and moaning) would be Brian Dumoulin. He’s big, rugged and sound defensively. Still skates well and has been very durable. Has loads of experience playing big playoff minutes for Cup winning teams. Still playing some pretty tough minutes averaging just under 20 a night for the Ducks this year and I’m pretty sure he has played both sides in the past.
Another guy I like is Borgen if the rangers flip him. Big and physical, skates well and loves to block shots. Before being bumped down by the Montour signing in Sea, he was trending well the last couple years holding his own against good competition and earning more minutes. He’s in his prime with nearly 300 games under his belt by end of year, I think he could be ready to become a real solid 20 a night guy in the right situation.
I’d classify both of these guys as average at best puck movers but if at some point they feel they need a bit more puck moving ability they’d still have Stetcher as 7D who brings that and while undersized is a competitor who can handle himself well up the lineup if needed.