Kipper didn't refuse the trade because he didn't think he was coming back this year, he refused it because he had a newborn in Calgary and knew his head wouldn't be in the game if he was on the other side of the continent from his family.
Also, if he came back and managed to keep this team from a lottery pick, that would mean he got us into the playoffs.
It would also likely mean a Vezina Trophy, and given where we are starting from, probably the Hart as well. You'd really have to question anyone who would be pissed off about that!