So what is a fair but excellent return for Markstrom?
NJ has 9.3M in cap space until Hamilton return. So retention is not required for them to take Markstrom. They can run with Markstrom+Vanacek tandem for this year and next. Their goalie prospects are young and can wait.
I would avoid any retention on him with 2 additional years on his contract.
2024 1st with conditions? Lottery protected in 2024 if NJ misses playoffs, shifts to 2025?
Plus
We need more A-/B+ level prospects on D. Seamus Casey? He is near the top of NJs current prospect list.
Plus
Conditional pick: If they go to EC finals in 2024-2026 we get a 3rd round pick in 2026 which becomes a second if they win Stanley Cup in any of those three years.
Is that enough for us?
1st 2024+ Casey + conditional 2nd/3rd 2026?
Markstrom's term is perfect for NJ. While their top players are still on cheaper RFA/entry level deals.
Would avoid retention and dont want to take back a forward cap dump. No room in our top 9 anyways.
All assuming they won't part with Mercer.
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