Edmundson

Barrie > Hoffman value-wise. As for the other trade, I'd require a mid round pick coming back (like MTL's 4th) in exchange for the version involving the 1st.

I don't get why these trades are coming up over and over again. I cannot imagine mtl retaining salary on anyone for more than the end of this season unless the other party is really dishing out value in exchange. They can only have 3 retained salaries on the books at any time and having the ability to trade expiring contracts at the deadline with money retained is too valuable in acquiring futures to give away an opportunity in a future year without real compensation. I also cannot see mtl wanting the trade for Barrie, he would be an upgrade but they are not as concerned about winning as who they are winning with and Barrie would be a huge change in direction from management. He does not in anyway fit what their winning window will be and they have cheeper more defensively responsible D to play with the youth.

I'd rather have Barrie than Hoffman. Both are on the same contract. Trading Edmundson clears a spot on LD for Harris or Xhekaj. I don't care about Barrie bumping Wideman.

MTL is gonna use those 3 retaining slots this year. MTL is okay even if they only have 2 next year. They won't have many players to trade next year who need salary retention.

I think they want to have a spot on the right next year for Barron or Mailloux (hopefully spelt right and I know he is more complicated). I would be surprised if they considered Hoffmans roster spot a greater barrier to development than Barrie would be.