– The Winter Classic certainly delivered on its dramatic reputation this year. The Capitals struck twice in the opening period, but the Blackhawks were able to tie the game back up.
On a powerplay with under thirteen seconds left, the Capitals were able to send their fans home happy: Troy Brouwer scored on a delayed penalty, winning this edition of the Winter Classic for the home team.
– Nick Foligno agreed to a six-year extension with the Blue Jackets. He is one of the team’s leaders and best players, and his presence can serve as a positive for the younger players in Columbus.
– I don’t know what Edmonton wants to do with the Nuge, Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, and Nail Yakupov, but I don’t think trading dollars for quarters is the best way to rebuild the team.
Even though each of the aforementioned besides Yakupov is signed for next year at $6 million, the Oilers aren’t particularly pressed for cap space. Per CapGeek, Edmonton should have about $17 million in room next year, while only having to sign a two essential players: Yakupov and Justin Schultz.
I think that the Oilers need to make changes, and trading Yakupov would be the first step, especially because he isn’t signed for next season. However, my belief is that Eberle is the most likely to be traded. I just can’t see the team trading Hall or the Nuge, and Yakupov likely won’t cost as much as Eberle to retain this off-season.
I think that the Bruins might be a logical fit, but the team should try to rebuild its defensive core. If Hall really is the one, I’m asking for Dougie Hamilton, although I think that would be a deal-breaker for the Bruins.
– Speaking of the Bruins, I don’t think that acquiring the first line right wing that they desperately need is the right course of action. This team is much more than one goal scorer away from being an elite team, and with the salary cap value still in question for next year, I think it’s time for them to shed salary.
Milan Lucic’s tenure in Boston might have run its course. When he’s focused and playing like a horse, he can be quite unstoppable. The Maple Leafs learned that in the final period of Game 7 in 2013.
When he’s distracted and not playing to his full capabilities, he’s a liability to the team who offers little upside. Even though he is a beloved figure in Boston, it might be time for a fresh start.
– Chris Kelly is another candidate to go. Another popular figure in Boston, Kelly’s contract for next year calls for $3 million.
– However, I think Loui Eriksson is the Bruins who is in line to go. Acquired in the now derided Tyler Seguin trade, Eriksson hasn’t been able to replicate the point totals that he was able to amass with the Stars.
Eriksson fits on the third line in Boston, but he hasn’t seemed comfortable playing on the top line with Krejci and Lucic. In addition, his production hasn’t matched what is required of that top position.
[Photo Credit: thehockeywriters.com]
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