Though i think Tavares is possible even getting 1st overall is as well i honestly think RNH is now on McDavids winger to stay and will take more than hes worth yo get seeing Cherelli can't lose badly on another trade and keep his job.

You can only sign John Tavares for 7 years not 8 years, And maximum ELC are only $925,000 not $975,000 So Dahlin could only receive a 3 year ELC at 2.775 million+Bonuses at the very most.

Hey if the first 2 happen - I'd be ecstatic! We could target someone else besides RNH, we'd have the ability to get a 2nd line center if the first 2 happened. I didn't even realize RNH was playing wing and just assumed that they needed to move him on account of Draisaitl.
The lottery is the lottery but if we won... I think that has to increase our chances at tavares. I'd say we have a solid 3% chance of it happening (I'm not missing any 0s, 3% is solid after the season we just had).

I suspect that if Tavares does go to a new team it will be a sign and trade. Montreal would give up a 3rd or something like that and Tavares gets the extra year... Islanders get something when they would have got nothing

Yeah that's possible if it's an sign and trade kind of deal, And some team gives Garth Snow a little something there a 3rd is probably the best he can hope for.