Lindholm

If Lindholm signs a one-year deal, it's to prove that he's worthy of a bigger, longer deal. For that, he'd have to play center and on a playoff team, two things that don't happen in this scenario.

There is a team in the East with a ready made opportunity and cap room. Would he sign a 1 year prove it deal with the Bruins for 8.5m?

I think it's a more suitable option

I don’t think he will be dictating things to that extent. And frankly if he demanded to play a specific position, we would probably be out.

(Also, Devils will be playoff team next year)

I could see the Wild trading Gus if they decide Fleury/Wallstedt is a better tandem to roll with next year, but I really don't see a scenario where they trade Middleton unless they're out of it at the deadline and can move him then for a good return.

Or they'll just extend him anyhow at the beginning of the season and skip the whole "finding a sucker GM to overpay on a pending UFA" since that seems to be Guerin's thing.