Realistically, we can't.
Committing 4-5M to a tandem isn't an option when we still have so many holes to fill on this team. The only way that works is if we ship out Demko when he's worth no more than a 3rd or 4th right now, if even that. I don't blame Lankinen for chasing a big payday when he might never have another chance. Alas, if he does. It won't be from us unless we move Demko.
If you do, you're guaranteeing one of two things:
1. Demko is traded in the off season
2. Our current roster more or less stays the same, possibly with a Boeser downgrade
Basically, any hopes of replacing Boeser with Ehlers or upgrading our center depth dies with that type of a contract.