I understand people jumping on the "calgary would never do" stance, but is this the best solution?
If you think Huberdeau is still a good player but not worth 10.5M, keeping him could make sense. Or if you thinknits a Jeff Skinner situation.
But the guy is already 30, starting an 8 years contract. EIGHT years.
If you believe he's gonna be cooked sooner than later, and Calgary is already not competitive... wouldnt that 5M cap savings be pretty useful 4-8 years down the road?
Additionally, each bad year from Huberdeau will just make his value tank more and more. Will a team be willing to get him a 5M in 4 years if he doesnt pick it up?
Im knowingly ignoring the "real money" aspect of the situation, which also plays a role. But, from a cap and team building perspective, Huberdeau just seems like a terrible anchor to carry around.