Yet another reason we should look to deal Stralman, and I now think we should deal Girardi for sure as well (assuming we can get a big package for him) as we get closer to the trade DL. And the same goes for MDZ, assuming we can get a solid return. Double so if we don't think we'll re-sign him this summer.
You have to figure McIlrath plays up here from day one next season. Allen could be a nice 3rd pair guy. And then we must sign a big, physical, crease clearing dman this summer. That is a 100% must IMO. McIlrath won't be ready to go in that role solo next season.
McIlrath and Allen as the 3rd pair. McDonagh and the dman we sign as the 1st pair. Moore and Staal as the 2nd pair. Pretty solid assuming Staal is healthy, Moore takes strides forward, and McIlrath is ready to be on the big club from day one next season.