It sounds like it came down to bringing in Darryl or keeping Ward in the offseason. Reasons why I think they came to their conclusion:
1. Ward is cheap
2. Promote from within is attractive to young up and comers
3. 12 seconds away from being up 3-1 on the team that won the west with a top player injured
4. Team liked Ward
5. Markstrom is a huge improvement in a key position
Ward was in over his head and it was clear this team lacked motivation/direction. The organization then pivoted to the more expensive yet necessary option. The way this team has played I agree with Treliving saying they need Sutter they need someone who will get the most out of them.
He finally shored up 2 key positions he had struggled and juggled to fill since he was hired with goaltending and coaching.
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