Sobolev would’ve helped this year, but didn’t justify an OA and Import Spot because of the quantity and quality of our other OAs. The reason we held Jodoin is because no one else wanted to pay anything, and Christopoulos ended up injured.
I doubt we hold Zhugin for a same but opposite. Zhugin would make a fine OA with what we have, but to eat up an import spot? Eichlers still on the C.S. List for the draft is he not? Curious to see if he has his name called.
D is needed, sure, some in the draft, but I agree there is urgency to build around the 06’s. Greentree will not be an overager here. We all want a gritty D I’m sure, but that’s what I’m paying for as an 05’.
It’s a lot easier to draft 2-3 forwards and have them impact the team immediately than a D man. Bring in something that’s proven in this league.
If Joeys confidence is there, he’s our option for the next 2. If he’s struggling at Christmas, it’s time to spend on an 06’ goalie. Seems very few these days don’t have an OA year.
Excited for the draft, my choice? Eichler over Zhugin, but with Russians available… I could see them both gone. I think Eichler holds higher trade value