Boston is in the same boat, minus the cap hell (things are pretty tight though).
I read that Carter rumor as well, but they could have gotten Halak for much cheaper than that. His price had obviously gone up as the deadline approached, but earlier in the year Gainey was talking about a 2nd round pick. Philly also has lots of youth up front that could have done Montreal well. Earlier in the season (even say January), Halak could have been had.
Or they could have sent Briere to MTL for Halak, and unloaded that fat contract. I kid, I kid... that contract is ridiculous... but then again, Montreal does love smallish forwards who make way too much money...
Even if Halak wasn't going to be dealt, there are still a few other goalies hangin around the league. If they wanted to really make a run, they could have maybe moved some bodies for Vokoun. The salary is ridiculous, but it's prorated, and there are some ways to work around that when you have some clout (minors). There are a few guys in Philly with bloated contracts, if I recall correctly.
Everything about Leighton's rise was just way too easy. I can't believe they thought he was the answer... sometimes coaches like "their" guys a little too much.
P.K. is awesome. Too bad I heard he's headed to Boston though, for Michael Ryder and Dennis Wideman.