Not trying to pigeonhole you, I'm just saying if this team suddenly does look like it has a shot at the Cup, they have holes to fill and should at least attempt to fill them before the deadline.
If Glen is in win now mode, he might as well do it right. The worst possible outcome is not trading anyone or giving up only a 1st/prospect, and then making a mediocre Cup run with what they have now that will inevitably end in an early exit.
Completely agreed, I apologize for getting uppity, I just don't like when someone implies I have an opinion that I don't have, even if it's only slightly implied.
Either retain or trade Callahan and Girardi. Have a plan and determine if they fit moving forward, and if their term and contract amount helps rather than hinders a shot at the Cup. Either way, it's about managing assets properly. Economics 101.
As far as holes, this is how I see it. This team still needs the following now and in the future.
Another 1B/2A center to compliment Stepan. I think we're fairly set with a combination of Miller, Moore, Boyle, and Lindberg for the bottom 6 center spots. I don't see Brassard as a Ranger next season unless he's moved to 2nd or 3rd line LW full time. He's not good enough defensively to be a 3rd line center, and not quite consistent enough to be 2nd line center.
3rd line RW. Fast or Kristo may be ready next year, but they're question marks. If Callahan is let go or traded, this becomes a big hole.
2nd/3rd line LW if Brassard doesn't move there. Kreider has a top 6 spot locked up, Hagelin is a 2nd/3rd line tweener. If Brassard isn't a left winger, we need someone else for that spot. You guys might kill me, but Ruutu out of Carolina would look great there if they retain salary. Has an edge to his game and puts up decent 3rd line points.
Right handed top 4 defenseman. Stralman is great paired with Staal or Del Zotto, but has been a disaster with Moore and McDonagh. If Stralman is let go, and even if McIlrath is promoted, RHD has a crater in it. Someone that's a good puck mover would be a great plus.
This team simply does not have the asset to trade for another big time player a la Nash. Get to work Glen.