Islanders got exactly zero from Tavares, after his insistance all the way to July 1 that he wants to sign with the Islanders. The problem was in his mind, he know well in advance he would only sign with the Leafs, but did not want to jeopardize what the Leafs would give up in return. It almost feels like it was an act of vengeance on ownership for screwing him over and wasting his years. The way he left was a total slap in the face to Islanders fans, he gave them nothing. He deserves every boo he got.
Compare to Steven Stamkos, where there were tons of doubt he would resign and all talks were of him being the highest paid UFA ever, eventually he does resign on June 29 at a bargain. You would know that if the Lightning were told by Steve's agent that he intends to test the agencies, his rights would have been traded, and likely for a 1st due to his prestige.
Best Flames related example would be Jay Bouwmeester who the Flames traded Leopold and a 3rd round pick for UFA rights. Bouwmeester could have simply baited the Panthers and signed with the Flames anyways.
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