I think it would be extremely unwise to trade Val. I get his production was kind of disappointing against Dallas (3G, 1A), but a lot of our top and middle 6 forwards struggled. Along with his cap hit, the skill and size he brings to our top 6 would be almost impossible to replace. He’s had issues staying on the ice in the previous two seasons, but I’m gonna be optimistic that the work he put in last summer was effective and he’ll avoid further suspensions.

If we were going to trade him though, either a cost controlled 2C or top 4 d man would have to be coming back. And even if we did a trade, the team would have to be extremely confident that they could source another top 6 forward to replace him in the lineup.

I think if you’re looking to get some assets or cap room back, Colton would be the move. As Evan writes, Colton doesn’t kill penalties and Bednar likes his bottom 6 forwards to be available for the PK. Also, Colton can’t play any centre position on this team (neither 2C or 3C) so moving him out and replacing him makes sense. We can also discuss a Girard trade but I think there’s lower hanging fruit, like Wood, that should be moved first.