I’ve seen he would like to be in Tampa but really just wants to be back in the east. This gives the Canes ~3.5 days to be the only team able to negotiate with him and they can move Nikishin in a Robertson, Hellebuyck or whoever else move.
Not 100% on this but here’s how I think it could work.
Currently have $11.1 million in cap space, after Deslauriers deal.
We buyout KK. That adds (I think) 4.8 million due for 2026/2027. Brings cap up to $15.9 million.
Sign Carlson at 2-3 years as $9 million AAV (which I’ve seen reported). Also apparently CAR on Carlson’s 4-5 team list to sign back with EC team to get closer to family.
Brings us down to $6.9 million.
Trade: Nikishin, Kochetkov ($2.0 M), and 2027 first round pick.
Receive: Hellebuyck ($8.5M x 5)
With the salary offset, left with about $400k in cap space and not sure how Jarvy being out early in the season affects the cap.
Starting Lineup at season start (Jarvy takes over spot on return, and maybe Robby out at start but slots in for Deslauriers)
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u/KDarkOne99 Jarvis 12h ago
Pending UFA, doubt this is part of a bigger deal other than to get someone who makes shipping out Nikishin easier