Quoting: MaximusDomi
How many years are left on Zaitsev's deal? If there is 1, Habs accept, if 2, need more value
2023-24 will be the last year but they probably won't have to trade him
With the possibility that the cap goes up by 4 M$, Zaitsev will most likely just be bought out
No need to sacrifice any pick to dump 1 year
The BUYOUT COST is $1,666,667, spread over 2 years too. Very cheap.
$2,833,334 in cap hit for the 1st season, $833,334 for the 2nd year.
https://www.capfriendly.com/buyout-calculator/nikita-zaitsev