You're describing my point exactly. Eberle, Hall, and Nugent-Hopkins have all been given $6m/year contracts for the foreseeable future ... but what have they proven? Sure, they are all capable enough offensive players, but all were thrust into roles they aren't ready for, and hence the Oilers struggling with three guys who are making too much money to do too much on the ice. Yes, they can all produce offensively, but none of them are ready for top-line matchups. That's why the Oilers keep drafting in the top-5.
We went through the same thing with Derick Brassard. He was given too much money and thrust into a premier role before his time. He struggled mightily and floundered before being dealt to New York where, guess what? He's making too much money and playing out of his element.
You aren't talking to people who don't know what they're talking about here. This discussion has been beaten from every angle, and 95% of the posters here are fine with the Jackets not paying him the $7m/year he's asking for. You are in the 5%.
Ryan Johansen only just started to show he's ready for top line matchups on a nightly basis, and even in our playoff run they tried not to match him up against Crosby or Malkin. Until he's ready to do that shift by shift and still produce, why should he be making Crosby or Malkin money?