It will be very interesting to watch which General Managers across the league think they're team is one or two players away from becoming competitive in terms of being able to get themselves into at least a Conference Final situation. While you can make the argument that Pittsburgh and Chicago are perhaps the most complete teams heading into the day, there are some teams that aren't far off. Here's a look at some teams that should be buyers today, with an indication of what exactly they are shopping for.
1. Washington Capitals: No one scores more goals than this team, it's not even close. They have good depth up front and capable checkers. Their goaltending trio is effective enough, but on defence, they lack that intimidating shut down presence required to go a long way in the playoffs. Look for GM George McPhee to inquire about any and all defencemen classified as a top-four guy rumored to be available.
2. Vancouver Canucks: While I tend to disagree, they think they're strong enough in goal. On defence, things are sound. Up front, the worry is that if the Sedins don't produce in the playoffs, things could go sour. GM Mike Gillis will need to try and make a splash for an impact winger.
3. LA Kings: Unfamiliar with the playoff process, having not been there for several years, the Kings may need to do a little bit of tweaking to ensure they enjoy some level of success come April. There isn't any glaring hole on their roster, but it would be in GM Dean Lombardi's interest to try and add a depth forward and defenceman with Stanley Cup experience.
4. Boston Bruins: They made some mistakes in the off-season, but today is their chance to rebound. They are still fighting for a playoff spot, largely thanks to the fact that they can't seem to score any goals. Their biggest pool of assets lies in net. It's clear that their going with Tuuka Rask, so does that mean Tim Thomas is expendable? Perhaps. And maybe if the Flyers call offering up one of their excess snipers, like Simon Gagne, we'll have a bigger deal than anyone expected today. Boston's goaltending situation is reminiscent to Montreal's when they, to everyone's surprise, moved Cristobal Huet at the deadline and went with Carey Price into the playoffs.
5. Philadelphia Flyers: Ray Emery is out for the season. Quite simply, they need a quality goaltender. Stop me if you've heard this before.
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