I think the last thing I want to see Holland going shopping for is a goalie, and I think he stays out of that market. The only UFA who looks like he could be that clear cut #1 would be Bobrovsky, and he has to hit the open market to begin with. I think a few things will affect Howard's resigning. One is price, I don't think Holland is looking to blow a lot of cap on another goalie, especially with Bernier inked. The second is how well Bernier plays. If Bernier has a really good year, keeping Howard becomes less important. The third issue is how well Sateri plays in GR and, I assume, in Detroit when he gets the opportunity.
The team has talked up Sateri when they've had the chance. I think they clearly like him. If he shines this year, Howard might be shown the door regardless.