It doesn't really matter if Edmonton has the Cap space to sign him or if it would be stupid for them to trade Drai. If he wants to go, he's gone in FA. He'll get the same or more money from his new team. He'll be Batman instead of Robin, creatiing his own legacy, one that now includes many folks still wondering how good he really is. If he's not traded -- and he probably won't be unless it's to a team he wants to sign with long-term -- he'll have another excellent chance to win a SC before he starts Chapter Two of his career.
Edmonton's choice is simple if Draisaitl's intent is to move on to Chapter Two.. Do we maximize our chances of winning a Cup in 2025, or do we get the best possible package for him this summer? Unless it's a crazy good offer, they'd be nuts IMO to not keep him and take their shot, and if he still wants to walk, c'est la vie. Gives them a year to work on him, keeps sending McDavid the message they are doing their best to win now. And Detroit would be nuts to offer so much that it might make them change their minds. The situation for all teams is basically overpay now by so much it hurts, or get in line next summer.