Ha? He got called up? Just like I was saying he will get a call in January or December. Also should call up Edstrom and scratch boninoscmuck. Yeah I know he blocks shots.
Scoring from the 3rd line has been a big issue, and with Kakko and Chytil out we are lacking depth (I think Kakko will be back this month hopefully). I think Othmann fits in nicely on the 3rd line with Cuylle and Bonino. Pitlick is hurt and is week to week, so I'd expect Brod will go down and play with Goodrow and Vesey on the 4th line. It is a good move to give Othmann a chance given the scoring depth need. As for Bonino, he was brought here as a 4th liner to help the PK, add a defensive presence upfront, and win FO's, and he has done all of that well IMO. The issue is he has been forced into a 3rd line role, which is not the right spot for him, but is what is it right now. Once he can move back to the 4th line, he will be a solid player for us.
I wouldn't plan on Chytil coming back this year, so a 3rd C like Lindholm could be in play, or a RW like Tarasenko. Boone Jenner perhaps. Give up a 1st or 2nd, Jones, and Pitlick or Bonino for salary. Maybe Othmann sticks from here out and you make any of Pitlick/Bonino/Brodzinski the spare.
Othmann has earned a look. Bonino has a role on the team, Pitlick is a body. I don't know if the Rangers can count on Chytil even returning to hockey. Trade Fox while he's a top commodity and before his NTC kicks in. I love Lindgren but he too lacks the size to clear assholes waiving their stick in Igor's face.
Under no circumstances do you give up any 1st or 2nd round picks. The core forward unit of this team is on the verge of being very old. A third line center should cost you Jones and maybe a college prospect like Fortescue.
Chytil is a total unknown right now for sure, but Kakko is getting closer: Injured forward Kappo Kakko returned to the ice at the morning skate with his teammates for the first time since suffering a gruesome lower-body injury in November. “It was nice to see Kaapo out there,” Laviolette stated. “He looks good and he’s moving well. It’s all positive stuff.” The 22 year-old was wearing a red non-contact jersey, but this was a great sign as he progresses towards a return to the lineup. He has 2 goals and 1 assist on the season.
