But trading Malone some time this year wouldn’t be a terrible idea if they were planning on resigning Gagne.

Its not like Brett Connolly, James Wright, or Dana Tyrell couldn’t come in and play whenever(if ever) Gagne was hurt, and just switch up the lines.

And I’d bet Carter Ashton would replace Malone at the trade deadline(similar styles/size less cost). Because my guess is Ashton starts the year in juniors or Norfolk

This still seems unlikely given how Steve has said letting the prospects develop. But if they are clearly out of the playoffs it comes into mind a little more since Ashton most likely would make the team the following season.

I don’t really get those line combo’s either. Putting two snipers together like Gagne and Stamkos and two sandpaper guys like Malone and Downie. I think these pairings would make more sense:

Malone-Stammer-Marty
Gagne-Lecavalier-Downie

Gives each line a sniper, passer and grit. Also gives Vinny someone to set up since it seems line he is “transitioning” from goal scorer to set up guy. The only guys I thought Malone had any chemistry with on the ice was Stammer and Marty.