Shootica

We need another middle six center. The question is if we'd rather have Johnson than the other available options. If we're feeling confident in out ability to get a different 2/3C, whether it be from free agency or trade, don't put in a claim. But we better actually land that other guy. If we aren't close to acquiring anyone else, claim him. Part of me does kinda want him to fall through unclaimed just to screw Tampa over, but that's not how we should be making our decision.

Did Adams gave a media availability scheduled for today? I've heard nothing.

I'm assuming Gustafsson and Vatanen would be looking at pretty similar deals to Brodie. Is that around where you see them?

Yep, another baseless Twitter rumor that doesn't make a whole lot of sense when you think about it.

It's not even 5 on the first day of free agency, and most of our realistic targets are still out there. Way too early to be asking ourselves this question.

We needed a 13th forward, he'll do the trick. Now go get an impact player.

The most recent reputable thing I've read on Barrie is that Vancouver is going after him after missing on OEL.

I'll eat crow if I have to, but that's way too low for Hall.

Now the question becomes how confident are we that the teams ahead of us don't also put a claim in on Johnson. And are we confident enough to delay a free agent signing for 3C. That opens up a lot of tough questions for a lot of GMs.

Tyler Johnson throws a wrench in this whole day. Makes it really interesting.

Alright Dregs, now that you've riled up everyone in Buffalo let's hear some names that are actually realistic.

I've got no issue with bringing back Zemgus, and good for him for getting a healthy raise. But this contract is overkill. He's a guy you sign for one year at a time at $1.5-1.75 and hope to replace with an equally useful player on an ELC in the future. This is more AAV and more term than I think he is worth in his role, especially considering that he's the exact type of player that is likely to get squeezed by the flat cap and team internal budget. It is especially strange when we seemingly didn't qualify Kahun over fear of being stuck overpaying him by a million dollars or so. Although I'm reserving judgement there for now.

I'd put money on Lazar being that C.

I just get a sense that they're going to get a deal done on him.

Off the top of my head, part of the Trochek trade?

Whoops, forgot about a goalie. Add it to the list!

But if Quinn is the guy that they felt very strongly about, why risk he not be there at 10?

In my opinion... Needs: 3C, 4LW that can PK, Secondary scoring 3LW (hopefully Kahun), bottom 4 LHD. Wants: Middle six RW so we aren't relying on Cozens and Thompson. Not all have to come through free agency, but realistically most should.

A Cliff Pu trade! I didn't even realize he was in Florida.

For what it's worth, none of the top name insiders have commented on Kahun. Makes me think they're digging and there's more below the surface.

Quinn. *****.

NJD take Holtz.

I love it. I love it so much. Good on the NHL for having some fun, and I'm glad Trebek is looking good!

I find it a little bit funny that rumors have us choosing between 5'9 Rossi and 6'3 Sanderson. I really like them both, but thought that was interesting.

Don't worry, Twitter usually has these things before cable.