I like Pouliot and wanted to keep him, but I understand why JR dealt him when he did and am glad Pouliot is turning his career around. I don't think it was going to happen here. So, at least we didn't lose him for nothing. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all a player needs. And sometimes, it doesn't matter (like Bennett, who seems to be heading down the path of a career journeyman).
I don't think it's fair to blame JR for anything at present time, because we CLEARLY are not a finished product and will make more moves. THEN, it will be time to biitch and complain about the lineup.
Agreed. I had no ill-will against him. I, in fact, REALLY wanted him to work out for us but you're right, sometimes a fresh start is what's needed. We should understand that more than anyone. I hold nothing against JR for dealing him regardless of how he ends up playing. Similarly, it's not like Oilers fans can be mad about them dealing Schultz. Some players with some teams just aren't meant to be. It happens. Won't be the first, won't be the last. I wish him well.
This team matters in one facet. The playoffs. This team is judged solely on that. I don't care if they squeak in last minute in the WC2 spot. Playoff results are the only things that matter. In both 2016 and 2017, in mid-late November, the team was seeing similar struggles. There is a lot of time to make adjustments. That may be from WBS players or trades. We've seen both work for us. I don't think JR is just sitting on his hands. We just saw his obvious willingness to make big moves - ie, the last push for Duchene. The lack of completed trades, either now or from summer, doesn't mean JR and Co isn't trying. Given his time here, he's earned the benefit of the doubt on that front. Some things work out better than others. That's the game, that's life.
I'd like to get a clearer picture of the long term structure of the team. Who do JR and Sully see as the "core"? I mean, obviously Sid, Geno, Letang, Murray. But looking at the other depth players, what's the pecking order?
Guentzel, Kessel, Rust, Sheary, Sprong, Horny, Hagelin, Kuhn, Arch
I imagine they see Hagelin as expendable. I imagine they see Kuhn, Rowney, Archi, etc as merely 4th line depth players - take em or leave em.
I'm betting they love Horny but realize that a resign to the cap-friendly deal in terms of long term building with the other youngins isn't likely to happen. However, he provides more to us than what we would likely get back in a trade.
Kessel, no idea...
That leaves Jake, Rust, Sheary, and Sprong. Who do they view as the keepers and the potential bait?
If I had to guess: Jake - untouchable, Rust - not untouchable but not shopping, Sheary - potential bait, Sprong - not untouchable/potential bait.
But long term, who do they see in the top 6 and those that are not in the top 6, can they be effective bottom 6 players?