Scott Ferguson, who is big on heart but low on natural skill, is likely to fill one of those spots. He played 20 games at the end of last year registering just one point, but was solid for the Oilers in the playoffs. Sean Brown, who was disappointing at best last year, Sven Butenschon, who has limited experience, Staios, who has had trouble finding steady work in the NHL and Jan Horacek, an unproven prospect, are other possibilities. Unless two of these guys step up their game or unless the Oilers trade for another solid D-man, Tommy Salo could be up for another busy season. A number one centre.
Any competitive team has to have the one guy who is a franchise player.
Now that the Rangers have Eric Lindros, Nedved gets demoted to the number 2 spot. With Mark Messier and Michael York the Rangers are strong up the middle. Finally with Manny Malhotra and Jamie Lundmark about ready to jump to the NHL, the Rangers need to make some space. If Lindros suffers any serious injuries, the absence of Nedved would leave them without a bona fide number one centre. Mark Messier is not that anymore.