I don't think it matters who Gorton trades for until AV's gone. AV has compiled an impressive coaching record with a great Canucks and Rangers roster but he just can't get that Cup. It's been a steady decline each year since he came so close after taking over Tort's team midseason. Bettman delivered on his promise years ago to get fighting out of hockey so there's no need for a goon to occupy a roster spot but you still need guys that can take the body effectively like CK. AV's like the guy in slapshot that wants to play old time hockey while his players get pummeled. The soft approach doesn't work post season.
As far as Gorton goes he inherited an incredible mess from Glen, in hindsight maybe he should have given Staal the heave ho and kept Girardi but Staal's gone next year so anyway. I liked the Stepan trade and really like Gorton's picks. 55 points with 31 games left, figure they have to win 20-21 games for a playoff shot, Nashville, Dallas, Boston, Calgary, Winnipeg next 5.