Joined: Jul. 2019
Posts: 138
Likes: 48
I'll bite, as it's a creative way of ridding problem contracts from both sides. Both of which, IMO, were regrettable the day they were signed.
EDM has enough depth at LD to not require Yandle. They don't have enough depth at LW, especially so with veterans who can still score (19 goals while injured about half the year is no slouch) and move up and down the line up. So there's no way they do it, even with the 50% retention.
Jones is ready to replace Klefbom if he does retire (or get traded, or selected by SEA). Lagesson was ready for 3LD last year, he'll be a good fill in this year. Likely that one of he or Koekkoek fill that role next year while creating competition for the likes of Samorukov or Broberg.
On the FLA side, Viola has been ruthless about trying to reduce expenses. There's no way he takes on money to see a contract he dislikes sail on. Draft picks and prospects, sure. But not money.