LA would have to retain salary for it work for the Bruins. They already up against the cap, so realistically obtaining Carter is not an option. I think Boston can do better if it means they give up their first.

Hard pass for the Kings. Carter is producing, Backes isn't even in the NHL. The cost to take on Backes alone is a first-rounder, no Carter going back.

I'm confused. In this trade, the Kings take back Backes's contract and retain 50% on Carter.

You're not going to get a 1st round pick in exchange for Backes's contract. They can continue to bury him in the AHL for cap relief and buy him out this summer for a significantly reduced cap hit. It's not worth it for Boston to give up a 1st just to move Backes.

In this deal, the Kings get back a 1st round pick, plus a hiqh quality prospect in Lauko. Boston frees up approx $3.6M next season that they can use to re-sign Krug this summer. They also get a quality middle-six center/wing over the next few years.

This is a win-win for both sides. The Kings gain nothing by holding on to Carter, as they're not going to be competing for a playoff spot during the remainder of his contract.