Matt Ross: Citizen Kane: The Watch Is On

The problem with the assessment that Barkov needs a scoring winger is that Barkov is on the IR half the time. That would leave Kane playing with Lundell or Luostarinen. We need to move on from Barkov and find a durable and true leader. Instead of saying let's finish what Tkachuk started in last year's Stanley Cup final, Barkov laid down and died. They were that close, and the will and determination of Barkov wasn't there.

Ok, who do you trade to be cap compliant to sign Kane? Knight seems to be the one....BUT, he is not putting up great #'s right now.

So, what's going on with Barkov? A sprained knee? Out for six weeks? It's like this every year, the captain of the team is out of commission.

Kane needs to sign a “prove you can play” contract before he gets a long term deal. There is no guarantee that his injury issue is fixed for good and that he still has any elite ability. So for me, nobody is offering any term, league minimum for the remainder of the year is all that makes sense, and the Oilers are probably one of the few teams desperate enough to try.

The Oilers don't need another winger, they need defense and a goalie that can stop the puck.

I've said this before and I still stand by it : At this point in his career, Kane needs a contender more than a contender needs him.

He would be a good add if the term is short and cap hit low. A show me contract. Nobody knows yet, not even Kane, how that surgery will impact him long-term.

Kane needs to sign a “prove you can play” contract before he gets a long term deal. There is no guarantee that his injury issue is fixed for good and that he still has any elite ability. So for me, nobody is offering any term, league minimum for the remainder of the year is all that makes sense, and the Oilers are probably one of the few teams desperate enough to try.
- Bullot

I basically reposted what you just said before I read it. 😂

Oh, I’m in agreement about a “prove it” deal. I would imagine Kane and his camp are most likely thinking/expecting that will be the case.

But I still think that if you can get him, it would be foolish to not add him.

There is nothing wrong with Barkov, and I think the assessment is right. He's only injuried now because of that knee on knee hit. Barkov said he dropped some 20-30lbs this offseason so that he can be faster and play better. I have no issues with Barkov.

The one person who I think changed the whole persona of the Panthers is Bill Zito. Since day one the club has made a 360-degree turnabout. I trust his decision-making and am amazed at his hockey insight. I look forward to his future moves and to see what becomes of it.