1. We have a desperate need for a top pair big young stand-out Defenseman which probably cannot and will not be addressed by the RA route because of the historic reluctance of top players to accept our often generous offers for well known reasons including our poor standings record and failure to make the play-offs. In addition our poor playing facility and equally dismal outlook for a new building weigh heavily on a player's desire to play here.

2. Detroit, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Toronto, Tampa,and Montreal among others in the West are desperate for help at the Goalie position.

3. The above named teams have many young [under 30] Ds under contract that could serve us well.

4. Since we would still retain Nabokov, Montoya, and either Poulin or Nilsson we are still well covered at that position.

This step is necessary if we are to have any chance of making the play-offs next season which in turn could lead to better attendance and renewed interest by private interest and money directed at a new Arena which all agree must happen if the team is to stay on the Island.