For the Nucks, a cap dump. Cheaper and comparable options for one, one less NTC to protect in the Seattle expansion.

For the Islanders, more a small scale insurance policy on a number of their pendong UFAs. Sutter is a solid enough 3rd line centre, but the deal is horrible for what he really does, hence retained money.

Let's end the Goldobin debate. He has potential yes. Not realizing it in Vancouver. And..... the Nucks have better options on the wing.

So move him and help Philly out. Nucks have the cap room for McDonald. He is on an expiring deal (even better, as you might be able to flip him at the deadline). He can certainly still play bottom 6 minutes. The real caveat is Frost. That's the price for a cheap 3rd liner and eating $5 million in cap.

Bottom line, if you are debating Goldie's value, move him for future potential.

Future considerations

Melnyk maybe cheap, but he still has to make basement. Sens are young, but still thin so adding Eriksson isn't a horrible move, especially in retaining salary. Granlund here is a key pick up - a servicable 3rd liner who is young enough to fit into the Sens long term plans. Hell, even moving the Sens up 3 rounds to help with a rebuild.

For the Nucks, Granlund is replaces by Schaller easily and they get out of the Eriksson contract. It's costly. But long term needs to be done.