I think Dubas is trying to create positive environment here. He's done similar in the past.
He's put the career of a player ahead of his/Toronto's selfish needs.
Lehtonen wasn't playing, Keefe didn't fancy him - rightly or wrong.
But Lehtonen wants to come to the NHL, play and make his name. I think Dubas has said, 'okay, it's not happening here, you deserve your opportunity, we'll make it happen'.
He's done it before with a few players. Josh Leivo springs to mind.
Maybe it will cost in the long run. But it definitely gives people a good feeling too. Players talk, agents talk.
If there's another free agent up for grabs in the KHL that Toronto wants, he and his agent will know if Toronto come calling, if it doesn't work, they will find somewhere they will get a chance. They wont be selfish and bury them.
I like it personally. It shows a humanity and I want to see that.