One thing is clear from the past two games, even though they were able to “upgrade” their defense in the off-season they made one distinct error. Not trading Erik Gustafsson at the high of his value.
Now we sit with Gustafsson having another roller coaster season, hurting his trade value on a nightly basis. Still on a solid 30 point pace he has not gotten anywhere close to the success he achieved offensively last season where he achieved career highs in goals, assists and points.
While Gus was still a terror in his own zone last season the spark that he provided for the offensive core and the power play was noticeable but this season with his offensive numbers taking a hit the gaffes on defense have only been magnified.