The price for Markstrom isnt that bad but Markstrom having a 6m cap hit and a 2.5m signing bonus wont fetch any kind of positive return without the Flames retaining 50%. If the Flames dont retain 50% they are going to have to sell Marky dirt cheap to a team with a ton of cap space like ANA SJ AZ or CHI.

Same, too much for his age and his consistency season to season.

His performance last year was widely due to the expected birth of his first child, which can be incredibly stressful and preoccupying. After his son was born he played significantly better for the remainder of the season.

Even if age does slow him down all of a sudden (which I would not bet on) he would still make an excellent mentor for Portillo. Half the reason Flames fans don't want him moved is to mentor Wolf

Aren't there just as good UFAs available for under 6m, and doesn't cost a first rounder.
Gee you could argue, even Kings 1m Talbot has had just as good season as Markstrom.