Make a major splash
If you add up the contracts of the other players mentioned, the total is $16.5 million. That leaves $5.7 million in cap space. But then, Versteeg is a back-up option. Take off those dollars, the cap space is $7.7 million. That is a great amount to work with, and to draw a major player.
There is a player out there that would take that amount. A player that was fifth on his team in points, even though he earned 56 himself. He is efficient, leading the NHL in percent of shots made. Plus, he give hits, blocks pucks, and takes them away from opponents. That player?
The 30-year old Oshie will demand a higher price, which will force teams to shy away. The Washington Capitals only have 11 players on their current roster, but only $24 million to spare. That roster consists of seven forwards, four defensemen, and a goalie. Too many holes to fill with not a lot of money. Compare that to Nashville, with 19 players already on the roster.
Can you imagine a veteran goal scorer in the prime of his career working with players like Aberg and Arvidsson? It would an awesome site. But is it likely?
Well, David Poile is the man to make it work. And, remember, Oshie earned $4.175 million last year. Will he sign for $6 million? If he does, Mike Fisher could sign for $1.7 million.
Next: Predators lose James Neal to Vegas
That would be an amazing team.