We can debate all day about what Laf is worth but our opinions mean nothing. So I won’t waste time on it. But for the hell pf it I’d say he’s still worth a mid 1st pick this draft for sure.How? They have zero flexibility cap wise and will need to trade assets very soon when Duclair is back. Their defense, minis Ekblad is also terrible. A top15 pick this year has more value than Laf.
I'd much rather OS Laf to the value just under a 1st rd pick and let the NYR deal with it than trade a 1st for him.
Or do something Similar to Kessel. "Whe give you 2x 2nd rd picks or the equivalent in prospects, take it or we OS your guy and you lose a 2nd pick"
& Idk. Panthers are just extremely underperforming this season. Given I haven’t watched them so idk how truly bad their situation is. I’m just surprised how low the pick is atm.
Offersheets rarely go through, but frankly yeah that would be the smarter choice from the Habs POV imo. They wouldn’t have to worry about Rangers returning the favour for a long time & it would be cheaper.