Ideally, we get 3rd line center who has already another year on his contract to allow Minten to continue to develop his game. My target would be Scott Laughton.
As for moving on from Kampf, last night's game was a perfect example on why we don't need a 2.4 million dollar 4th line center. Holmberg, Dewar, and Lorentz are all capable of playing center, all 3 also can PK.
I've advocated for Laughton as well. The question that now presents us... is Minten actually ready, or does he need to develop more? If not, I'm all in with you on Laughton.
Holmberg was ok last night in many respects. Good defensively, good at draws... terrible at doing much with the puck other than skating into the Dzone and giving it away. Nothing happening for him offensively, though credit where credit is due, he did create the opportunity for the EN goal.
Dewar is crap at faceoffs. He had some good energy last night, but I'm not sure he's the answer for anything. Lorentz I like as a winger.
Yes, Kampf is expensive at $2.4, but so far this year he has been a better hockey player than Holmberg.... the question being, what do we need that cap space for? It's not stopping us from getting Laughton, or Olivier, or both.... We have the cap space to acquire both of them, if we send out Reaves and Robertson, and Holmberg, Minten, Grebs go to the minors. That's with a 22 man roster.
However, if Minten sticks... I don't mind moving Kampf out, and Laughton in... having Laughton as a $3mil 4C... because that makes for a very strong lineup.
Here's your 4th. line.
Lorentz-Dewar-Holmberg: ~$3mm.
Holmberg isn't the physicality I want out of that spot. Replace him with Mathieu Olivier.