I posted this on another thread: We have three top-four defensemen (Markov, Komisarek, Hamrlik). Streit is a talented player (e.g., he was third among defenseman in scoring this past season), but, as we all saw in the playoffs, his value may be limited to the offensive zone and particularly to the power play. Plus, Carbo has played him a lot as a forward. As a result, I don't think we have a legitimate fourth top-four defenseman. O'Byrne is still young and developing. Bouillon and Gorges are tough, but are small. I think both are, at best, sixth defensemen.

So, even if Streit resigns, we should pursue a top-four defenseman by trade or free agency. Looking at how Brad Stuart has solidified the Wings blueline only strengthens this belief. Moreover, we have good defneseman in the system, but none may be ready for the big time yet. With Brisebois leaving, another defenseman will be required anyway.

In terms of who that fourth defenseman could be, in terms of a trade, Kevin Bieksa seems like an attractive candidate. He's a right shot, is strong, has an offensive upside, and can play in all situations. Vancouver needs offensive help adn we have offensive depth (e.g., Grabovski). Bieksa would be under contract, but Bouillon will be a UFA after next season (and perhaps Gorges will be too), thus providing an opening for younger players. In terms of a free agent acquisition, Marek Malik should be considered. He seems to be the 'under the radar' signing that Mr Gainey enjoys. Malik is a big body and, what impresses me most, he's a quality 5 on 5 player - the past five years, Malik was +30, +35, +28, +32, and +7. (He seems to have some injury issues, though.)

Hainsey I think will be resigned by Cbus or will get a lot of money thrown at him by a desperate squad, just like Orpik will.