Habs Halifax
Loyal Habs Fan
The problem here is the $4 million part, not offersheeting Puljujarvi part. If he either busts or only progresses slowly, you're either going to have to let him walk as a UFA and try to re-sign him or continuously qualify him at $4 million. That's the issue here.
If you want him, trade a reclamation project type of prospect for him and re-sign him for like $1 million a year. You're not trapped with the options of overpaying him or letting him walk as a free agent if you do that.
You can give him another 1 year deal at $4M at age 22. You should get a good idea on his potential in his age 21 and 22 years. If he is worth $4M at age 23, you pay him. If he is not worth it, let him walk.
A 2nd round pick has more potential to disappoint
The only risk is cap space. If you have the cap space, it's worth the shot.