Setting aside the trade, I think you are really overpaying Dumba there. He doesn't seem to have many options. Easier to flip at a cheaper price.

How do we buyout Labanc and Simek after the buyout window has already closed? We don't have any pending arbitration settlements that would open a 2nd window.

I think Dumba would be lucky to get offered 2 mil right now. We also have 12 D-men looking for a roster spot, we don't want Dumba. And I wouldn't buy out Labanc or Simek, just let them walk.

This is a fine roster and plan. The trade has too little return for that much of a retention, so if it's 2.5mil retained instead, this would be a very realistic roster. Like others have said, no need to buy out Labanc and Simek. Otherwise good stuff.

The trade looks pretty good. I think $3.5M retained is realistic. However if we're going to retain that much and take on both Driedger and Schultz then get a 2nd instead of the 3rd. The roster has one too many NHL goalies so maybe trade one.