23-24 Working with what we have

Certainly Ottawa and most teams don't have the cap for Mantha

Doesn't have to be Ottawa. Just suggesting a lineup without him on the team because he isn't a good fit. I forgot Ottawa still pays almost 3.5 million in buyouts.

The trouble in a cap strapped league, trading a middling player with a semi high cap is virtually impossible without similar cap being returned. The other team would much better off signing a UFA(s) for just as good value as you just did with your UFA signings.
Now a lousy team with cap might take Mantha off your hands, but don't expect anything in return, might even to add a sweetener as so many teams want to dump cap to cap available teams.

I almost included Lindgren in a hypothetical Mantha trade because he looks to be starter material and has a very team friendly contract.

Have to let Sheary, Kubel and Irwin walk. Can't get Lav a chance to play them over kids. I'd take Gus back at that much but he'll get more money elsewhere.