Step 1) Fucking PRAY we don’t win the draft lottery. We’ll be trash next year and the prospects are going to be much better next draft, don’t fuck us over Bettman

Step 2) Draft BDA in draft. I would hope for Clarke, I have a good feeling about him.

Step 3) Trade Jones and do whatever arrangement you have to to get Anton Lundell, that dude is going to be a goddamn stud and our answer at 1C if our current situation doesn’t pan out (and I’m betting it will not). Consider swapping Jones for Stralman to offer them cap relief, and/or picks if need be. They’re set at C for a while and they know it, use this to your advantage.

Desired outcome: Contenders again in 2-3 years

EDIT: I didn’t realize that the new lottery rules started next season. Forget step one