The thought process here is that Montreal have a surplus in LD prospects, and with Levi coming through, Portillo is essentially rendered obsolete. While Buffalo may very well use Portillo in a more blockbuster deal, which is fair, I could see a minor swap like this where they get another young offensive defenceman who is close to NHL ready to join the already young D core and Drouin could be a good, cheap playoff rental who compliments Buffalo's goal heavy strategy that they could fairly easily resign next year as a redemption project. I could also see Buffalo going for Edmundon as he still has term and he's a good veteran with a big body and leadership is perfect for a young team finally in the playoffs.

If BUF would take that we'd be laughing all the way to the bank.

A retained Drouin might bring us a 3rd if we're lucky but more like a 4th, if anyone takes him at all; Norlinder has absolutely no value, career AHLer at absolute best.

Portillo is closer to a 2nd round pick in value (imo).

Also, neither of the players you're sending to BUF would help them in any way so idk why they consider this. They would be better off taking a loss @ a 3rd or 4th round pick for him than to accept what you've offered them.

Portillo is a ufa this summer he has no value as its already been confirmed he isnt signing with them.

Norlinder simply by being signed > portillo value wise

They can likely find someone better to fill up a contract. It's almost a negative for simply having Norlinder signed imo tbh.