Kinda feel like the Colorado trade is a downgrade at both positions

Probably saving 2M in cap though, which adjusts for the difference.

Interesting Colorado proposal. It's pretty good value for Colorado, but as an Avs fan I think I'd lean towards keeping Graves as he will be more affordable going forwards, particularly as he will be on the 3rd pairing behind Byram and Girard. Bailey is also 30 and so even if he's an upgrade on Compher I'm not sure he fits the age profile of the team as well. Feel free to convince me otherwise though...

Realistically, trading Bailey might be inevitable but it could be hard finding a partner for him. Colorado could be a good fit, but I know they’re saving cap for MacKinnon and idk if Bailey really fits with that.

Maybe with some retention they could flip him to Toronto and reunite him with Tavares lol (Id probably start crying though)

Bailey is a player that should play well into his mid 30s. Not a physical player so although he had played a lot of hockey I do not think he will slow down or regress. He can frustrate fans because he does float at times but he is a very smart player and can contribute in all situations. He needs to play in top 6, if you put him in the bottom 6 he will disappear, and he needs to play with someone who can drive offense. The age factor for Bailey isn’t as important as the fit as he should produce at least 50 points for the next 5 years. If someone can convince him to shoot more he’d be a 60 point player as guy has great shot, just rather pass then take a good shot.

I agree that Colorado probably wants to keep Graves.

Thanks for elaborating a bit about Bailey, I appreciate the insight, thank you.

What do you think Bailey's price would be in isolation (i.e. if you leave Toews out)? Would NYI consider retaining on him?