Quoting: OldManRutherford
Need to see what the salary cap is this year. League says 1 mil but the teams are tired of being handtied. I can see it going up as much as five mil this year if the NHLPA agree. Teams need the flexibility to be able to trade and move contracts.
Canucks can make some big acquirements in the summer and it would start with getting rid of OEL. If FA cannot afford 19 mil over 8 years then this team will be hooped either way. You need to make big moves while Petey Quinn Demko and Kuz are in their prime, and not wait three years.
I think th NHLPA was concerned about this at the beginning of the season. I think they negotiate the escrow payment down to 50% and take the increase cap of 3 million for this season.
The owners may just say to hell with it and get rid of whatever is owed, allowing for that 5 million you mentioned.
If that were to happen, they have to address OEL, 1 way or another, without a doubt.
I am unsure what this management group thinks, so maybe they just hold onto OEL and think he is the guy needed for next seasons playoff push.
Like most Canucks fans, I am tired of old and slow mistake prone defensemen like OEL and would much rather see someone like Brisebois, or whoever, get a real opportunity. If nothing else,Brisebois has put in his time in the organization, being a good pro.