why would Columbus do this

Columbus is in the unfortunate position of needing to pay assets to get out from under Elvis’ contract. This accomplishes that while making the pill easier to swallow, perhaps nudging toward contention in an aging Metro and the raised reputation that comes with such. Meanwhile, they’re overloaded at mid-grouping forward and mid-level defense; if they don’t act soon, they risk losing players for pennies on the dollar (see: Bjorkstrand last season). This seems like the appropriate price, balancing quality and quantity.

Also, an aggressive move like this might entice a legit veteran like Jonathan Toews to sign a short-term deal (to help mentor Fantilli).

This is hilariously bad, congrats

Assuming you are correct in the CBJ wanting to get out from under Elvis’ contract and assuming they have to move assets to do that, it could probably be done without involving 14(!) people/picks.

Elvis has a new goalie coach and a more physical, likely improved defense in front of him, and he’s one more year and one giant personal connection removed from the Kivi tragedy. Let’s see how the year goes before overhauling the entire organization just so they can “get out from under” him and his contract.