Minnesota doesn't have the cap space to fit Kuznetsovs $7.8 mil caphit in.
They'll figure it out.... if low retention is needed. maybe, but I dont think the caps do that. Minnesota needs centers.

And why would Mark Scheifele waive for a team that's trending down in Washington? he grew up a Red Wings fan Yzerman was his idol growing up. I can see Scheifele waiving for a young up and coming Red Wings team. Then a Capitals team that's trending down and heading for a major rebuild once Ovechkin retires.

Why would the Blues trade Buch for picks a year or two out? Seems like entering a full rebuild which they aren’t capable of doing given the roster construction.

Blues decline. Buch isn't being moved as the blues see him as part of the core moving forward

Maybe. swap a pick for a prospect, could even be McMichael

Maybe, not well versed in what blues think of him. for the right price though I am sure they would be willing to move...might need some tweaking on the package. I dont think caps trade 2023 1st rounder though.

For only a 3rd pick. Montreal would say yes.

In what world is the Habs paying for a guy who was scratched with that contract realistic? Especially with a 3rd in 2023? Habs should have 0 interest in this, with their already logjammed forward group. Only way this goes down is like a Monahan trade where the Habs get paid to take a near $6M player whose unreliable.