The cap is going up 1million next year to get you to 21 players, then you've probably got to flip Brosswah, which should get you to 23

Good point, note that I've assumed that their RFA's will accept their minimum QO's, and I think there's zero chance of that happening with Hague and Roy.

Yeah, no matter what happens it'll be really tough. Can go after Brendan Smith or Mark Pysk who play both forward/defense as their 21st or 22nd player too for added flexibility. Then next year Patches is ready for a new contract... it's gonna be tight for a while

For my own reference, where did you find their qualifying offer? Or how is that calculated?

I think they move or buy out Dadanov before Brossiot... will give them some extra space for proper bridge contracts on their RFA's and maybe add a low cost vet

Even at 82.5 next season is going to be tight. As other stated I fully expect Dadonov to be else where because with that little space you run into issues with injuries and end up only able to call up guys making league minimum not even guys on ELC’s.

https://www.capfriendly.com/qualifying-offer-calculator