I don’t see the value for Ottawa. I also don’t know if Duchene is a number 1 center, don’t get me wrong, he is an elite player, but would I want him as the fist line center of my team.. no probably not.

Ottawa needs a leader and captain if they move Karlsson (even if they don't) and upgrade their D depth. Duchene with Kane on his wing will look like a good number 1 C

Ottawa wants to cut costs and build their future. Murphy for Borowiecki? Sure!

Dahlstrom for Gaborik? They're cool with that, but not retaining. The whole point of taking Gaborik was to cut costs.

Duchene for full-priced Toews? They just remembered they have an important meeting, but they'll call you.

they're still not spending that much (caps under 70 mill) and building a decent team,