You saw the $$ centres were getting on the open market. Hughes is right not to go with this madness.
Also, Hughes knows this team is not a cup contender next season. He made a big trade for Dobson, but dont expect him to solve everything all at once. I think he said something about that idea as well.
We dont know how a guy like Bolduc will look up front, he may be a good fit on the other wing with Demidov. Or bring some skills and grit on that bottom 6.
Guys like Newhook and Dach have contrats and are still on this team as speak. They both can play centre and st-louis might need them to do just that.
Maybe Hughes can make a trade later this summer, he has done that in the past. Or he can start with this team and see how it goes. More teams could be open to trade around US thanks guiving and near the trade deadline.
If you want to make a trade, you need somebody to trade with. Never forget that part.
I looked at a reel of all of Bolduc’s goals last year, he has a great shot. 80% of them where from center of the ice high slot with either a one timer or a wrister. Looks like he’s great at fiding the open ice to make himself open.
I think he might fit in well with Demidov who likes to skate with the puck and create plays.
I don’t think Laine will be a great fit, too static and whoever they will be centered by won’t be a selke nominee for sure. You need another winger that can play the 200 foot game and I think Bolduc is more capable in that department or otherwise. I think Demidov, Dach, Laine is too much of a liability.