We can’t even rebuild/tank properly. Instead of calling up Graves and getting him some experience they called up Pionk. Seriously, this franchise is fucked from top to bottom.
Smith was bad. Idk who to compare him to over the last 12 years. Pionk is AV’s kind of guy, smallish “puck moving” defensemen who is not physical.. Graves at 6’4 220 is what this team needs.
I have never thought Gorton shared AV's philosophy on a soft team which is why I think AV will get canned. I kind of like Pionk as a 6th pairing, PP guy. McDonagh is going to get dealt. Then Graves gets the call.
Either they'll eat part of his deal or send a pick/prospect to move him. Too bad but if he came in out of shape or let the contract affect him what can you do? I didn't even think he was good during the playoffs.
