Quoting: spockrock
You don’t seem to understand the expansion draft.
It only makes sense to protect Hamilton if he is re-signed prior to the expansion draft. Guess what, Seattle has a window BEFORE the expansion draft to talk to all ufa-to-be players. IF they come to a deal with a ufa-to-be, that deal is done and the player who was signed counts as the “pick” from his prior team.
So, if by oddball chance, Hamilton signs with Seattle, guess what (again), that would happen BEFORE the expansion draft not after. If Hamilton doesn’t sign with the Kraken, why on earth would you protect him over a player with more team control? You would have less than a week to work out a contract before so many other teams will
offer him MORE $$$ than the Canes will.
A little understanding of how the expansion draft actually works might go a long way...
I am well aware of how the expansion draft works, but this is a very unique situation. Hamilton is one of the best players in the NHL. Seattle will get to talk to all PENDING (in capitals since you didn't seem to remember it)
A little understanding of how circumstances change here might go a long way
Hamilton is an elite defenseman and one of the best in the NHL. He came 4th in Norris voting last year. With me so far?
Vegas were the last expansion team. They have had paramount success since joining the NHL. They weaponised their cap space to attract more picks in exchange for eating bad deals.
Seattle will have the same boat load of cap space. They have the chance for the same paramount success. Hamilton can play for a cup contender (If this expansion draft is anything like Vegas') AND still get paid, what... 11/12 million a year?
The reason you protect him is because if Seattle do not pick a UFA they have an agreement with, they cannot sign him for a calendar year. That gives you better odds at keeping the best offensive defenseman in the history of the franchise.
There is no logical reason to expose Hamilton. A little common sense goes a long way here.