If the Habs don't trust Lingren to be the backup goalie, there are lots available in the UFA market. Why would they give so much for a backup? And why would Florida, who is loading up on cap space to go big game hunting, load up on 3rd liners/pairing guys that'll just eat up said cap space and roster spots?

Those are fair questions and points. It was based on a (chance) assumption that Tallon IS going big fish hunting to sign Bobs away from Columbus, while also looking at the underlying numbers of Lehkonen and seeing a potential young middle 6 forward who could provide cost certainty. Juulsen will never be a first pairing defenseman, but has 2nd pairing potential and is, again, young. While it is true that Reimer is a more expensive option for a backup, the Habs would need to recoup that first round pick. Reimer is not the goal of the trade: The goal is the first round pick. Taking Reimer would be taking a high-level prospect out of Tallon's demands, and if it means taking a higher contract back - in this case Reimer - and give up two roster players and lower picks for that first round pick, MB could do it.

However, point made. Looking back on it, if I were Tallon I probably would think twice before making the deal or just simply would not do it. The fact remains that he has to get rid of one of those contracts and Reimer is easier to move than Luongo in a market where there's a glut of qualified goaltenders.