Term is the factor here. I’d rather laine at his current price for a few years over Mathews but since laine is on an expiring deal and his new contract will significantly lessen the gap of numbers between them id take Mathews because he’s the better player. It’s kinda a loaded unfair question pick 2 guys with same term
Matthews for sure. Even contract wise, Laine is going to get a raise next season, drawing the cap hits closer. That said, Matthews is the better player by a mile.