The only way it makes sense to me is if CAR threw a rookie-max ELC at him and started his professional clock (one day closer to NHL free agency).
If he stayed he could sign anywhere summer of 2025 (as he'd be four years after draft year, one USHL, three UND). CAR would not be happy losing that draft pick that way.
Nothing here so far: https://www.capfriendly.com/