norrisnick
The best...
- Apr 14, 2005
- 29,232
- 13,773
If a guy bolts to the KHL his NHL team still holds his rights until UFA age. Edm wasn't going to not qualify him, I don't think. And buying out Yamamoto is next to nothing.You could have acquired him without buying someone out. The guy wasn't resigning in Edmonton, he was going back to the KHL until the Detroit trade happened.
Kostin, if he continues to grow as similar players of his ilk have progressed is a relatively valuable piece. Philly turned down a 1st and 2nd for Laughton. Not dissimilar to Klim. Tampa traded an entire draft class for Tanner Jeannot. Again, not dissimilar to Klim. Check out Barbashev's resume at Klim's age.
These are in the same vein of late 1st early 2nd round physical wingers drafted over the years. GMs and coaches fall all over themselves for these guys come spring time.