A cap jump that large is pretty wishful thinking at this point. The absolute maximum it would jump by would probably be 2 million, with it being more likely that it only jumps 1 million or so.

I'd say the Gaudette contract is a bit too little and the Motte contract is a bit too much in terms of cap hit, but the difference effectively cancels. Stetcher could likely get a good chunk more than that considering that Green has recognized that he's a better option in the top 4 than Myers recently. Stetcher is someone who I could easily see management moving on from because he won't be that cheap anymore, which sucks because it's clear that it's the Myers contract (inferior player) that would push him out (the better player).

I'd be happy with that Tanev deal considering the term. That Markstrom deal looks like a discount in terms of cap hit if anything. However, both have made it clear that they would like to stay with the organization, so maybe a slight discount is reasonable.

With a more realistic cap and some slight salary bumps, I think it's clear that Sutter needs to go as well. He hasn't contributed to this organization in a meaningful way in a while (due to injury) and we don't need him anymore. It's also important to note that we need to stay about 3 million under the cap next year to prevent Pettersson and Hughes' bonuses from carrying over. We'll need as much cap as possible to get them their new contracts and fill out the roster as well.