Fingers crossed, knock on wood, etc. that the Isles good health continues and the young players, Dobson, Wahlstrom, Sorokin, etc. keep developing.
If that is the case, I don't think that the Isles really need to do much at the trade deadline, since they already have quality depth at forward (especially if Wahlstrom has nailed down a spot in the top-9).
That last "open" spot will presumably be utilized by Trotz to mix and match either the hot hand or key on the best matchup, among MDC, Uncle Leo, Ross, Czarnik, maybe Bellows (if he has proven himself), etc. depending on what the opponent's strengths and weaknesses dictates.
And that is fine. Let's see what this core can do and then make any necessary major adjustments in the off season and see what the expansion draft holds, with respect to potential salary being claimed by Seattle.
I am still hoping to get a look at Aho as the reserve defenseman (but not due to injury, just as a breather for Greene so he stays fresh), otherwise I guess maybe we see a move for a low-cost vet for depth.
That said, I could see Lou shopping either the Isles #1, a mix of seconds r other draft picks, to make a move that brings in some quality depth AND also frees up some money going forward. But only if he finds the right deal that works for the team.
The trade deadline might be the best opportunity to move out a bad contract, especially if a lot of teams opt to hold onto their first rounders, due to a stagnant cap, the expansion draft, etc.
There are so many teams bunched up in the standings and on the cusp of the playoffs, there might not be as many sellers this year.
If so, then the mix of limited sellers, few teams willing to give up a first rounder and teams with cap space that will go to waste if not used (looking at Detroit specifically), could favor the Isles at the trade deadline.
If the Isles are essentially locked into a playoff spot, or can get a guarantee on lottery protection (top-3), moving out a bad contract and adding a solid depth piece could be a reasonable play that kills two birds with one stone.
It would also allow the Isles to get a good look at a potential (placeholder) LHD replacement for Greene, if he retires, or for Leddy, if he is selected by Seattle.
I mentioned Detroit because they have so much cap space to retain salary (a projected $9.4 million), lots of veterans on expiring deals that would fit the vet depth definition and they have been willing to take on salary for futures.