Okay, just looking at where the situation stands it looks like the Canucks' are going to make a push to make the Playoffs with two key signings (nearing their mid 30s).
With that in mind, what do you think the chances of the Canucks to be one of the eight in the tough WC?
I say it's reasonable to project that there are about four locks to make the Playoffs: Ducks, Kings, Blackhawks and Blue.
Then there's a group of four that are in the mix: Sharks, Wild, Avs and Stars (teams that made it to Playoffs last season) but could be vulnerable to a team like the Canucks to displace one or more of them. But honestly, on paper do you think the Canucks are better than any of them? But it's stil touch and go.
They still need to acquire one more top-6 offensive talent, preferably at C.
Would ya?
Consider trading Horvat and or 2015 1st Round Pick (potential huge risk here) as the main piece for a top 6C that's 25 or under. Say for example, The Cody from the Sabres?
I think I would. Now you'd ask, why would the Sabres' want to do that. Well, look at the path they're heading. They are literally want to guarantee either a McDavid or Eichel. To do that they have to finish with the worst record (even if they lose lottery, they can only drop one spot next season).
Say they go for Horvat. Their Centre depth: 1C McDavid/Eichel, 2C The Son of Paul, 3C Horvat.
Horvat, long term fits their structure better than The Cody as he'll be competing with The Son of Paul for a 2C role, plus having The Cody on their roster gives them a slight chance that they might not finish with the worst record overall ....... with teams like the Desert Dogs not looking to great right now.
But, if they go for the 2015 1st Round Pick Option, and the Canucks' missed the Playoffs, they have a shot of drafting BOTH McDavid/Eichel and if that happens, their GM will be considered a "generational executive" and Canucks' fan will be hurling for, uh, just the next couple of decades.