While this season has been going relatively well for Hamilton, I feel that there are definite hard decisions coming up for the franchise. The Steelhawks are definitely in a win-now mode with a dynamic offence and stable defence (albeit offensively focused) and a goaltender that will give the team a chance to win every game. To get to this stage for the franchise was not easy, and prospects and draft picks were utilized to trade for star players onto the roster. The prospect pipeline has taken a hit, and without the 1st and 2nd round picks for S58, as well as the 1st round pick in S59, the Steelhawks could be heading into future seasons with a depleted core once contracts expire and regression hits on key players. Hefty contracts will need to be doled out and it will be difficult to construct a team with this much firepower for the Steelhawks several seasons down the road. While tough to find a fix, creative trades, hitting on the limited amount of draft picks, and the continued progression of current prospects (PRESSUREEEE!) will be crucial for Hamilton to continue fielding strong lineups such as this season’s.