Fair comment regarding NHL system, however, we are not talking about the highest level of hockey in the world, we are talking about the EIHL and as said before, a coach in our league would certainly want to bring in players he is familiar with if at all possible ( if they meet budget restraints etc ) and not just inherit a squad that might not fit with his particular game plans or style of play.
A question I would ask is, do you think management also look more in favour of bringing in players who are single rather than those who are married with families ? I only ask as it would help with costs ( accommodation, flights etc )