Yes let's play two overpaid, plodding grinders and send down the quicker, younger, more skilled guy.
I may not be understanding the rules quite right, but I think Rychel had to be on the Cleveland roster today in order to be eligible for AHL playoffs later. That will be invaluable experience for Rychel and some teammates.
Having said that, I also thought that CBJ could then recall him after 3pm. Clarkson being available and Bourque clearing waivers may have caused them not to do that.
They aren't going to send Bourque down to LEM for 19 games (the kids there need to play and they really don't want to embarrass him for what might be his last 19 game rodeo), and more importantly Rychel needs more ice time and top-6 play than he was getting on 4th line with CBJ for his development/confidence purposes.
No doubt Rychel would be better option for CBJ success now. However, I have to admit that LEM is probably better option tonight for Rychel's long-term success and CBJ long-term success. I feel your pain JFIF, it sucks for now.
EDIT - what Wennberg said. He's faster fingers.