Ottawa would rather keep the guy they don't actually have to pay that much money. No use for Russell as a player.

Other than the fact that the Ottawa Senators have internal budget constraints and they would much rather pay for a player to play, rather than sit on LTIR. Edmonton has the money and will to get themselves out of the situation they're in.

Also, Ottawa needs a versatile defenseman who can play either side depending on which of their prospects actually make the jump next year.

VAN says no..... hard no!

VAN will probably want to get out from a player who says they don't agree with their coaches deployment of them (toxic dressing room) for a player that has made it known he wants to be in VAN. Potentially there will be a sweetener, but I can see both teams wanting a deal that they just get it done.