I have no interest in Vrbata, he wasn't good in Vancouver before the bottom fell out there. He seems to only do well without pressure. Not a risk worth taking since I think he'll get 3.5+
I also wouldn't buyout Bouma because we don't need to. I'd rather pay him this year and not have any buyout penalties next year when Backlund is up because just the expiration of the Raymond buyout will get us within a million of what we need for Backlund.
Also no interest in bringing back Versteeg. I find him useless when he's not producing and he doesn't use his linemates all that well. If we're going to pay a PP specialist, which is all Versteeg is, I'd rather pay Iginla who brings more to the table in terms of intensity and physicality. Plus then maybe Gully will stop using a forward at the point on the PP.
If Vrbata is that much, then no, we don't really have the cap space without losing a guy like Stajan. That said, he put up great stats last year on a horrible team, and though he struggled in Vancouver, after last season's strong performance, it's worth the risk on a 2 year 3 million per type deal. Looking back on his career, I wouldn't assume he folds under pressure, but I cannot say that for certain.
Your take on Versteeg vs. Iginla, is an interesting thought, I like it. Also, I didn't think about this, but after losing Engelland, it'd be nice to have a face smasher in the lineup when we play ANA, EDM, LA, etc...I would just hope he can still keep up skating wise.
As for Bouma, if we can trade him for a bag of pucks, that'd be my first choice. I just don't think he's a better option then some of our AHL guys who should be ready to go next year. Bury him if need be, but I wouldn't want a poor attitude affecting our minor team.