During a rebuild, an NHL GM needs to be constantly re-evaluating the question: “Who are the pillars to build this team around?”
Various things can alter the answers to these questions from year to year — Andy Greene has aged out of the core — or even moment to moment — the Adams Larsson and Henrique were edged out of the core by trade offers for what Shero perceived to be superior pieces. But, at any given time, a firm grasp on what the value of each player is to the near and distant future of the franchise is necessary.