Both needed a change of scenery. Spooner was disappointing. At the end of last season he looks like he could put up at least 15 goals and 35 assists but it didn’t work out
The fact that Strome is a right shot who can play a top 9 wing spot is the most important part of this trade. Get Fast back to the 4th. Money and term pretty much a wash. However, I believe he was playing C for EDM. Is this insurance for Hayes about to leave?
Hayes isn't going anywhere. Strome has another year on his contract at 3.2. So Gorton must be confident he can move some salary. My guess is Zucc is on the way out.
If Hayes plays well and could bring back a 1st+ and we are out of it, could they trade him and still maybe re-sign him?
Change of scenery might help both, like Gorton picking up a RH shot who previously played in NY. Dumping Staal would free up money, open a spot for a prospect and improve the defense. Watching Marc repeatedly continue to stray from the front of the goal to no man's land outside the faceoff circle has to be frustrating for Quinn. Resigning Hayes should be a priority, his size isn't easily replaceable and he's picking up where he left off on last year.
After a slow start, Hayes has been great. He's stated he wants to be here. IMO, they can't afford to let him go. Zucc on the other hand has mailed it in and he looks like he's lost a couple steps. If they could find teams to take Smith and Staal that would be great. I'm sure they have to retain some salary. Hajek and Lindgren probably both need to be up here now. Let's face it, Miller is on the fast track.
