That's just not a good enough return for Matheson, who plays the 4th hardest minutes in the NHL and a significant role for MTL. That 1st round pick might not even be an NHL player, so why would you do this while also retaining on Matheson?

That's ok, you can keep him. Matheson would not be a good Matt Roy replacement, which is what LA will be needing (a shut down defensman that Clarke or Spence can develop with). Not a good fit for both teams.

Never said he was and the reality is that's likley the best offer Matheson would probably get anywhere on the market. It's basically what CGY got for Hanifan, there is not a strong market for LHD so it just doesn't make sense to trade Matheson if you are MTL.

Hanafin was a rental. Thats a massive underpayment for a cost controlled dirt cheap top 4 dman

You're right my bad I thought Hanifan had another year left.