Quoting: TCMonkey
The last thing OTT is concerned about is JJ's cap hit. If they're taking on a LHD that they DO NOT NEED they'd prefer to get something real in return. I mean be honest, PIT could get a 4th round pick for BJÖRKQVIST right now, so why is OTT giving one up AND taking on JJ's contract. Horrible deal for the SENS.
It's far from a horrible deal. Let's look at the facts...
1) Ottawa isn't going to be a playoff team for probably another two to three seasons. (JJ's contract is three more years)
2) Ottawa WILL be taking on some cap dumps to keep stockpiling futures.
3) Ottawa has to fill out the rest of their defense and there aren't going to waste their time with any big names yet.
4) PENS ARE RETAINING 50%, so $1.625 is an easy hit for them to take on and they can always bury him in the minors for more savings if they deem so.
5) Bjorkvist is going to a good young cheap bottom six player which is always a good thing to have.
I mean, could the Pens add a little more? Sure, maybe throw in a 3rd on top of it and that's fine, but this is FAR from a horrible deal. Plus, it leaves them more space to take on more bad contracts for better futures.