We keep seeing this trade rumor in varies forms coming out but nothing actually happening. I get the feeling that the wings and lightning are not on the same page value wise on a deal involving Johnson. Its going to either cost a lot more than the rumored packages or maybe there is no deal to be made. From the wings perspective there is no point in committing to a player for more years than anyone other than Mantha on the roster at this time, and certainly not someone in their 30's. Why do it? He isn't going to make the team competitive and if you want veteran leadership is currently cheap to sign via FA. The bought out Abby not to cap reasons but for the roster spot and contract slot that he had (remember 50 limit), it seems counter-productive to then get a player who also doesn't fit your long term plans (yes is better then Abby, but so are a slew of young guys that need the playing time).

Another point against a deal is the term, since there are so many unknowns at this time about the effect long term on the salary cap, we know that for the next 2 season it will be flat, but if it stays flat after that? The wings plan is to build through the draft and let core develop, well what happens in 2-3 years if they do and this contract is still on the books in a flat cap? Its not about this season or next for the Wings its about after that. None of these deal take that into consideration.

I think that the Stevie Y stated goal of improvement while keeping flexibility of the roster is counter to a Johnson trade. At least in the rumored variety. I believe it will cost far more then the Lightning want to pay and so no deal will come. A late first in a so-so draft is not likely to change much for the Wings longer term, especially since they have 3 2nds in the draft, to warrant taking on the contract or more accurently the term.

If it was that easy it would've happened a while ago.