The Habs don't have the luxury of a young prospect to replace Armia and be as effective as Armia. They are already the 2nd youngest team, and Hughes indicated that the balance of veterans is key. Leaving guys like Roy, Tuch, Kapanen in the AHL to grow is more important than bringing them up to replace Armia. Heineman at 23 is the perfect example of being patient is the way to go. Next year will likely only see Demidov join the team, with Beck Having an outside shot.
I don't think Struble the last 2-3 games has been playing on his off wing. It's been Xhekaj. Also Struble played 5 mins last night. If they trade Savard they will need to replace him. I don't see them going down the stretch with Struble full time. If they were to do that, then Engstrom should be called up. He can play both sides and is having a better season than Mailloux.
The Habs don't have the luxury of a young prospect to replace Armia and be as effective as Armia. They are already the 2nd youngest team, and Hughes indicated that the balance of veterans is key. Leaving guys like Roy, Tuch, Kapanen in the AHL to grow is more important than bringing them up to replace Armia. Heineman at 23 is the perfect example of being patient is the way to go. Next year will likely only see Demidov join the team, with Beck Having an outside shot.
I don't think Struble the last 2-3 games has been playing on his off wing. It's been Xhekaj. Also Struble played 5 mins last night. If they trade Savard they will need to replace him. I don't see them going down the stretch with Struble full time. If they were to do that, then Engstrom should be called up. He can play both sides and is having a better season than Mailloux.