Why would Steen waive and why are the Devils paying you to take a massive cap hit on a player that doesn't fit into our future plans?

I can't answer the last part but Steen waiving may or may not be an issue. His NTC expires February 1st and as far as I know the NHL has not altered the dates of in-season NTC expirations. So you can probably move him if you find a GM who will take him.

I don't think Steen would generate any interest from a team like NJ even at a retained cost. I was thinking about Jimmy Howard as a low-key goalie add. He hasn't been good lately (by GSAx he had the 3rd worst season in the past 5 yrs) but it would be a new role for him and zero risk for STL if he signs that low of a deal. Could make the team as the backup or at least put some pressure on Husso. I don't know how much interest there would be around the league but I'd def sign him to that deal or at the very least give him a PTO. Maybe there is a fit with a one-way contract and he's comfortable in the bus league getting NHL pay until he's needed in the NHL. I've heard the Blues are looking for an AHL goalie.

Foley...

he would if there was a value asset coming back with him lol

Sure, then it's a totally different deal tho. What about Steen, 26oa, and Kostin for Palmieri at 50%? Both teams would get their 'deadline rental' move out of the way early. Steen's salary is less than his cap hit so real money isn't a huge difference.

yeah I would do that, would probably prefer a D prospect instead but I guess you guys don't have much in that department outside of Perunovich. I'd take that return.

I made a team yesterday with that trade and some other big moves and it looked pretty good. https://www.capfriendly.com/armchair-gm/team/1940786 Not sure what the Blues are gonna do tbh, might be an 'evaluating' season if Petro walks - doubt they'd do anything bold.

definitely a bit of a tough spot for you guys, your better players are getting older and there isn't a whole lot of impactful youth on the way up. you should probably be going full on win-now mode for the next few seasons to try and shoot for another cup.