There's an interesting rumor tidbit about UFA free agency mentioning the possibility of kicking tires on Tavares July 1st.
The connection makes sense. He's familar with Dubas/Spezza. Geographically, the move wouldn't be terribly far.
He likely wouldn't command more than 3 years in term, and would be a reasonably good replacement for Malkin. For the upcoming season, they could play together—with Malkin shifting to wing.
Tavares has a great reputation as a lockerroom guy as well as a shoulder to lean on for younger players.
Just something for discussion fodder.
I could see it, but I don't expect it.
I don't know. Would think Tavares would want to go to a contender and chase the Cup since he's never come close to winning one.
Plus, he's old. No thanks. Stay the course and get younger, faster and more physical.
I'm not dead set on it, but...there aren't dozens of under 25 for us to pick and chose from for each position. We want to avoid older players, but we need so much help, there are spots over the next few years this team won't have a choice.
As far as possible RFAs that could be had, I'd see if Vegas would accept a pick or picks for Nicolas Hague. He's only 26 and seems to be coming into his own. I read that Vegas is going to be tight against the cap and will have to part with a defenseman. He would slot in pretty well on our left side.
With the cap going up so much my hope is Dubas will sit back and watch other teams over spend. When teams see the money and term being given out Rakell and Rust will be much more coveted
It is a great point. People on the board mentioned this last season. It only works if Rakell and Rust continue to perform though.
At some point we have to get assets back for Rakell and Rust. If Dubas wants to take one last shot at it with Crosby and Malkin then ok, sign a guy like Tavares to a 1 year 12M deal. But if it doesn't work out you better be looking at a fire sale ahead of the next deadline.
I know a guy in New York City that might be dying to get Rust on his team....
With the cap going up so much my hope is Dubas will sit back and watch other teams over spend. When teams see the money and term being given out Rakell and Rust will be much more coveted
It is a great point. People on the board mentioned this last season. It only works if Rakell and Rust continue to perform though.
At some point we have to get assets back for Rakell and Rust. If Dubas wants to take one last shot at it with Crosby and Malkin then ok, sign a guy like Tavares to a 1 year 12M deal. But if it doesn't work out you better be looking at a fire sale ahead of the next deadline.
That ship has sailed. Get on course and stay on course.
