That's a horrendous return for Panarin. Highway robbery by the Habs if they could pull that off.

Habs, after gently checking for signs of fever or intoxication, say yes and skip out of the room like giddy school kids.

I think MTL would have to give up 1 more piece but I don't think any team would be willing to fork over much more than that

Artemi is more impressive every game I watch. He leads the entire team in possession. Hossa's play increased when he went from the Toews line to Panarin's. If they HAVE to trade him which they might...look for a lottery pick trade for a number of reasons. Cap Space, Talent Return, and The Hawks want to make a splash in the draft this year since it's in Chicago.

Until we know how much he will cost in his next contract, the return value is somewhat moot. If he's looking for Tarasenko money or more, the Hawks will be a little ham stringed because they know they wouldn't be able to resign him so they will be forced to trade to the highest bidder. Teams knowing this won't overpay knowing they could potentially offer sheet Panarin at worst case.

Regarding the trade, MTL would be silly not to take that offer. Either way, not many teams can afford a 7M+ contract without losing some salary. So trading won't be as easy as some think.

Do you think the deals of Murray, Kuch, Trouba help the trade idea though? Recently, teams have been on the winning end of RFA deals.

Well in all fairness, aside from Kucherov who everyone knows took a discount to stay in TB, those others aren't in the same category. Have to agree though, the teams have been winning these head games with the players and getting them to sign for more realistic contracts.

Why does everyone think Panarin will be traded to Montreal, the Habs have a million contracts to sign next year, plus Panarin will probably cost about 6 million for 6 years