Per hockeydb, Kivlenieks has played 16 games and Vehvilainen 19. Not sure that argument holds weight 

Appreciate the comments, Q and OWSH. I don't mind the idea of letting VV see if he's ready next year, but it's a risky play with no contingency plan. As for Kivlenieks, all due respect to the guy, but he isn't even showing well as an AHL back-up. He's the "back-up" in Columbus because they want VV to get starts in Cleveland. Definitely a situation worth monitoring 

Thanks, Doggy!

Thanks, Q! I think you're bang on.