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The key to winning the cup is having 12 forwards able to contribute offensively as well as being responsible on defense, 6 defensemen that can move the puck from your end to the other end quickly and efficiently, and have a goalie(s) that can steal games when needed. Basically, if you have depth and skill players where you need them, you can win. But it takes a total team effort in order to get it done.
We have the goalie(s), we have the defense, we have a strong bottom 9 forwards. This team needs someone to play with Gaborik and most likely two people to play with him. Lines 2-4 are fine and there is reinforcements in the minors that can fill in when a player goes down. This is why Richards is a must at this point. IF Dubinsky can step into the top line LW spot, this team has a chance in the next 2-3 seasons to be something really special.
Replacing McCabe with Erixon will help A LOT. MDZ steps up and plays in the NHL and you're looking at a very strong, young, quick skating (minus Girardi and Sauer), and responsible D core. Even if Valentenko or Eminger are the 6th D on this team, it will still be strong enough to win.
We also have a lot of youth, which should be improving. Having that, and the potential of getting Richards, this team has all the pieces to be strong for MANY years to come. That is, unless Sather messes it up by spending money on the wrong players in free agency.
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