I understand that those are the rules, and Tampa did nothing wrong per se, but there should be something in place per the NHL, like If a guy doesn't play x amount of games in the regular season then they're not eligible for the playoffs.... Or simply, idk, make the salary cap stand pat throughout the whole ****** season; including playoffs.
It's a shame to see, a guy like Kucherov isnt a small add, Tampa would be a tough out regardless, but that just takes it to a whole new level. MTL has next to no chance.