Whose Staying, Whose Going?

March 9 is the trade deadline for the NHL. And if you have checked your calendars lately that means the deadline is just a week away. So I thought I would play General Manager for my team and picked the 3 players I would send away, and the 3 players I wouldn't dare part with on the Capitals roster.

To Trade:

1. Brendan Witt. Obviously, he has wanted a trade since they started this whole rebuilding process. Many Caps fans have already discounted him as trade fodder and cant wait to see the replacement they get for the 31 year old defensemen.

2. Jeff Friesen. Unable to add any spark or veteran steam to this growing team, Friesen has been more of a money taker than a money maker. It just didn't work well for him here in DC. We should get something solid in return for him.

3. Ivan Majesky. The Caps need to shed some size on the blue line for speed and puck handling ability. This Slovak is slow and would rather hit than contribute anything substantial.

On the bubble to trade: Nolan Yonkman, Brian Willsie and Mathieu Biron.

To Keep:

1. Alex Ovechkin. Okay, you would have to be insane to think we would ever give him up.

2. Mike Green. I know he is usually a call up from Hershey, but Green has shown some promise and looks to contribute greatly as his learning curve improves. His speed and offense savy will make him a staple of the position he plays on the Caps roster.

3. Matt Pettinger. Who can deny this guys speed and wrist shot? He has added a spark when he has been on the ice of late. Pettinger has a certain talent of keeping 3rd and 4th line defense off kilter and his speedy stick handling abilities can provide the goal support Ovechkin needs.

On the bubble to keep: Brent Johnson, Dainius Zubrus, Shaone Morrison.

Olaf Kolzig, Jamie Heward, Chris Clark and Bryan Muir have all signed extensions with the Capitals.

The Caps have a good core that is buying into Glen Hanlon's message, but the team is in desperate need of some depth. GM George McPhee should take anything he can get, forwards or defense in this seemingly sellers market. The Caps would do well to keep a core of intact lines and beef up the bench. As usual your thoughts are welcome.