I mean i like the idea of them and the values r close if not perfect, but i think phanuef would rather retire than go back to toronto

Truth

IDK how the phaneuf buyout helps? Next year it's a six million cap hit for no one.

It's $5,416,667 for 20-21 and Ottawa retains 25% since they retained 25% on the Trades so in 20-21 it would only be $4,062,500M on the buyout

So you save 500k next year. Plus you need to replace him and that a minimum 700k. So you are really in the hole 200k. IDK if leafs can afford to do that with Dermott and other requiring contracts

Buyout for the Leafs:
Year 1 (19-20): $2,187,500
Year 2 (20-21): $4,062,500
Year 3 (21-22): $1,062,500
Year 4 (22-23): $1,062,500

In 19-20 the Leafs save $4,062,500 this year which is enough to resign Hainsey for a year (a veteran leader) and keep Kapanen and Johnsoon from the offer sheet threat sure next year they lose that much next year in cap but the next 2 years it's $1.0625M in cap lost which is like one 4th line forward which is worth the 4th round pick maybe it should be switched for the LA 4th because of the 2nd year cap hit of the buyout