Edmonton is probably waiting to extend Draisaitl until after the expansion draft. Also, the Tavares extension would not go into effect until the 2018-19 season.

If we're going to acquire Draisaitl and Plekanec, we might as well trade Barzal for defensive help. I'm sick of seeing us ruin natural centers by forcing them to play wing (see Strome, Nelson).

When all's said and done, I think Draisaitl resigns with Edmonton. Put Plekanec at C2, let Barzal learn the NHL game from C3. But if Edmonton lets Draisaitl hit restricted free agency, extending an offer sheet, even one that expensive, makes a lot of sense. I'd just hate to see a great prospect in Barzal forced to the wings and go the route of Strome.

I "ripped up" last year of the extension. He can get his money now if both sides agree to void final year. Think that is enough to get him to drop from $10M ask to $9.5M. Isles offered Draisaitl on July 1, which is after expansion so I'm lost on that comment

I get your point, but Plekanec is only for one season. Would walk and Barzal slides back in to C role. If NYI didn't get Drai then Plek 2C and Barzal 3C

Edmonton would have NP matching that IMO

Got news for you, Edmonton matches that Draisaitl offer sheet. Rather easily here.

If you want to offer sheet Drai you have to give between$8.75 to $9.25 million per year on a 5 year contract. This would be an offer, Edmonton would think about not to match.
Chia put himself in a bad position after saying that he first will fix the McDavid contract. This isn´t possible until July 1. and I think there will be several offer sheets for Leon.
But IMO Leon doesn´t want to leave Edmonton. They are two or three pieces away from being a real contender and a cup winner.