Ofc it works when you underpay your RFAs...

Congrats on structuring the worst defense corps in the NHL.
If they dont bring back Hainsey and Gardiner- they have to be replaced (and not both by unproven rookies). Hainsey will be relatively cheap, but if Gardiner leaves- hes going to be replaced by another dman in the $3-$5million per range, and to do that- they need to move at least one of their pricey forwards not named Tavares or Matthews. Marleau has a NMC- but those have been waived before, but more likely Kadri or Nylander has to be moved for picks, or cheaper young players.

Take a look at the comparables and tell me what you think Kapanen and Johnsson deserve.

Johnsson situation is a tad more unique. He has already signed a one-year bridge deal. Closest comparison to him is probably Andreas Athanasiou, as he has done it, too. He got a $3M contract after a 33 point season, making it around 3,78% of the cap when he signed. From estimated $83M cap, 3,78% is around $3,2M. Then Johnsson has some cards left, for example the fact that he's their best LW - especially now that Hyman is injured and will be out for some time from the beginning of next season. He also had a better season than Athanasiou, points wise. He got 42 points.

I'd estimate that Johnsson is getting a contract between $3,5-4,25M, depending on how long the contract is. There are also examples of players that are even more expensive after worse seasons - Burakovsky for example is one. He's a $3M, max 35 point player thus far. If we're going just through points from the latest season, as a 25 point player his every point cost around $120k per point. If Johnsson's every point costs that much, his salary would be $5,040,000. So estimating the contract to be north of $3,5M is nothing but realistic.

Kapanen on the other hand is getting out from his ELC. Teräväinen's current contract is a great comparison, 2 years at $2,860,000 after 42 point season and being pretty much at the same role. When signed in 2017-18, salary cap was $75M, making it 3,81% of the cap. 3,81% from $83M cap is around $3,2M, which could be a very good contract for Kappy, if he signs a two year deal.

So there. Some comparisons and math. Don't be surprised if/when Johnsson will be getter a bigger contract than Kapanen because they're in different situations with their career.