I have a feeling both were hoping for a Mikhey or Zaitsev deal (play one season to solidify a good NHL future) and sign for better than playing at home cash, but Lehtonen and Barbie got the Aaltonen and Ozganhinov one promised season, which failed and than give up on the NHL dreams.
They can prove they are still NHLers, just not with Leafs.
A chance to play for loser teams like the Sharks and BJ's....I'm sure both players NHL dreams were playing for a Cup contender not fringe bottom 5 worse team....both players will never play again in the NHL after this season.