I think that Nick Robertson is more likely to get the first nod than Pontus Holmberg but Yes, this is the nexus of the problem: a 20-man roster, no cap space, and Rasmus Sandin unsigned. Moreover, it's not easy to trade a forward for cap relief because the most likely valuable suspects have NTC's that probably keep them from being shipped to teams with cap space. Unless someone like KERFOOT is willing to go to ARIZONA, it's hard to suggest a realistic solution.

If they trade Kerfoot - they can sign Sandin and run a 22man roster. If they trade Holl - they can sign Sandin but can still only run a 20 man roster.
Hate to see either go (both really useful) but looking like Kerfoot is the one that has to go. But as you rightfully point out - hard to see where he can go or what if anything leafs would have to throw in to make it happen.
And they’re not the only team trying to shed cap
That’s why Dubas, Pridham, etc get paid I guess

Also if they do happen to open with a 20man roster all of Simmonds, Clifford, Anderson, Benn and Mete have to pass through waivers to go down (I'm not totally sure how Benn and Mete work as they aren't waiver exempt but are listed in the minors, which the 3 forwards are listed on the NHL roster). Anyways, I realize none of those guys are game angers but I assume if all 5 were claimed to open the season that would be a significant blow to the team depth. I'm not sure what Dubas will do between now and opening night but I doubt this is the roster we will see and he's likely going to have to do something to get to at least a 22man roster, no less.

There is no chance the Leafs would have to pay to move a 50 point player making only 3.5 in cap and only 750k in real money. Any team that needs to get to the cap floor can get him and then flip him for better assets at the deadline. This whole Capfriendly mob thought that Kerfoot can't be moved is ridiculous. Even using Bjorkstrand as an example is a poor one. He was making a lot more and hasn't really shown himself to be anything more than Kerfoot. Lots of teams have space and need players like Kerfoot. He'll bring a return if they have to move him.

I agree with you wholeheartedly; but I think all the teams are at the cap floor already (or will be when they sign their own rfas). I’ll be sad to see Kerfoot go either way - he’s an underrated & good player. I also don’t really care if we get or give a draft pick to move him. If you’re relying on 3rd or 4th rounders to build your team, then you’re in trouble.

The only thing is, do you want Roberstons crack to be playing fourth line.