I think the Flames are the definite losers of the trade. It’s not because they get the worse player for the upcoming season but because of the risk associated with the contract.
- Criteria - winner
- Better player last season - Flames
- Easier to buy out - Oilers
- More likely to rebound - Oilers
- Lower cap hit - Flames
- Lower player salary remaining - Flames
- Extension draft implications - Oilers
Strictly based on the players the Flames get a better fit, and a better player. Based on results from last season though both teams get bad players, which are prime candidates for a buyout. If both players simply play at the same level next season the Oilers win this trade once they buy-out Neal. The only thing that would even out the scales is if a potential compliance buyout is introduced before the Seattle expansion draft. Which I find unlikely.