I really hope we don't see any panic moves happen here. I don't think this season is lost yet, but if it is... so be it.
Without injuries to Sekera and Drai early, we would have a winning record right now, I'm sure of it. Making the playoffs in this tough league isn't just talent, its circumstance.
Tampa - Missed the playoffs last year due to injuries, cup favourites again this year. Also missed playoffs twice after round 3 visit.
Dallas - Benn and Seguin have missed playoffs 2 of last 3 years.
Pittsburgh - Held onto playoffs in 2015 by a hair, got knocked out easily.
LA - Missed 2 of last 3 years. Seem to be back on track.
What we are missing badly is speed and scoring. We have 2 of the best prospects in the world for that in Yamamoto, and Puljujarvi. Don't force those kids to try and fix now what might just be unfortunate circumstance and putting them above their heads.
1) Send Yama down now. Focus resources on proper development for both him and Pulju,
2) Chia should try to do what he does best, find the next Kassian/Maroon deal... just different type of player this time.
3) If we miss the playoffs, so be it. Let's hope we get some draft lottery luck in this super deep draft. If we do miss this year, I'm sure this team will come out with a vengeance next year and have a Tampa Bay like start.