Note: RFAs who go to arbitration cannot use UFAs for comparables -- only other RFAs.
If we want to be conspiracy theorists, there is only one advantage of going to arbitration: the arbiter can only award money & term, and cannot award no-trade clauses.
So if BA as a super-secret plan to trade Crouse (with 50% retention of course) and get a King's ransom for him, then BA would want to go to arbitration....or maybe trade him beforehand.
I've personally been an advocate of signing Crouse for 5+ years, but it obviously entirely depends on whether they see Crouse as a guy like Shane Doan-lite, who they want to keep around very long term to have as one of the veterans for when team is ready to compete; or if they see Crouse as being a guy likely past his prime when they're ready.
My guess is BA wants to and will keep him and get him signed long term, but I guess we'll find out soon. And if BA wants Crouse to be here long term, then unlikely Chychrun, the feeling will have to be mutual with Crouse.