I like the RFA trades and actually after thinking about it am on board with the Mason trade. Only 1 year left on his deal so no harm to the Rags.

Do you think that Smith will get another chance at the NHL roster? Didn't keep tabs on him after he got sent down. I know NYR have many young D men in the pipeline (Day, Lindgren, Hajek, you've added Fox) who might be better used in that spot.

Out of these prospects the closest to the NHL is Hajek, and I still think a season in the AHL would do him good. Fox will still be in college. I think that, to fill the LD spot, it is either Smith (who obviously will come to training camp more motivated than ever – and in shape) or a UFA or trade. I think it is best to give Smith a shot, since it won't cost us anything and he looked amazing with Skjei in 16/17.