Looking at the prospects moving up the charts for the Nucks there are a few guys that can likely make the jump to the NHL next year if given the chance, guys like Schroeder, Sweatt, Jensen, Kassian (he spent some time in the AHL last year) and Connauton. Looking at the present roster, there is obviously a gaping hole on the back-end for the Nucks where they don't have a good pairing for Edler and, with Salo likely heading to Europe or another destination, no one to QB the PP. Although Luongo will bring them some assets, b/c of his contract it will probably not be as much (i.e., not a premier player or prospect) so they may have to include another player/asset to get it done.

I love Hansen, but he could be expendable if the Nucks are serious about bringing Jensen up and letting Sweatt become a speed/energy forward for them that can also kill penalties. And as much as I would love to see Booth go I think his trade value has plummeted b/c of his itchy twitter finger.

So, that brings me to Hansen, he had a great year, has speed to burn, and would be an asset that any team would love. He is a good player, but not irreplaceable, and has a good contract to boot. He could be an enticing part of a package that brings in an elite defensemen that could solidify the top 4, and then leave room for Tanev, Ballard and Connauton to round out the rest of the group. He could also be replaced, speed/energy wise by Sweatt or Jensen, and open up some room for the prospects.