PLayoff team in 2 years. Legitimate contender in 4.
Nielsen, Abby, and Dekeyser's contracts aren't the reason why this team is bad. This team can absolutely be a contender with all 3 on the roster. They don't need to be traded to accomplish it. If the kids drafted over the last 2-3 years, and the next 2 years pan out, this team will have a good mix of vets and kids with Abby, DK, and Nielsen AND be really good,. I don't know why some people think that you can't have all of the above..
Hypothetically, if Holland becomes Seattle's GM, do you think he takes any of Abby, Helm, or Dekeyser if they're available in the expansion draft? I don't.