You have to look. You don’t have to follow through but it’s irresponsible to not see if a great deal exists.
If Drai is unwilling to sign, then he shouldn’t be offended by the team shopping him. They have to do what’s right for them
Also people here are always concerned with “winning the trade”
The Panthers showed it’s about getting the best thing you can get. Weegar is great, and you can’t use hindsight on Huberdeau in this discussion.
They traded two great players for one but it freakin worked.
Has there actually been any indication that Drai wants out other than baseless speculation?
No, but the cap structure would stay interesting if he resigned anywhere near market value.
That’s the other thing Edmonton should consider. You hope for a stellar young player on a cheap deal, but maybe settle for multiple good or rock solid guys on great deals if you can work it. Whatever you can’t get in players, try to get in other pieces to flip. Oilers cap could get weird if Bouchard also doesn’t sign a discount