Anaheim wouldn't take those two picks, but would take your 2024 first in their place.

You're probably right, I just think this is a better offer and allows us to get a player that will help us sooner.

Edmonton rejects

It's not a better offer to Anaheim.

Why not? If we trade you our pick this year, it is because it will be 8th ish. Next year's draft is better, the pick will also be top10 and you get another 1st.

Because I seriously doubt next year's pick from MTL would be top 10 with Zegras on the roster, and if this year's draft is worse than next, why are you claiming you would only do it if it's 8th or later this year, but would give up next year's top 10 plus another first?

Because you're gambling that next year's pick is in the mid teens with Zegras on the roster, so the acquisition cost will hurt less.

I genuinely think that CGY's first will be very low next year. They will have a rookie as their starter and will most likely continue to debuild their lineup.
I am not gambling. You will get the best of the two picks. If you prefer the 8th ish pick, take it. I'll gladly draft high next year, I only did this because we try to compete sooner than you. A high pick this year, even if slightly worst than the player we would select next year, is worth more to us because he should make the team faster. That's how I see it.

If CGYs pick is top 10, MTL doesn't have it.

Got me on that one.