Your input is appreciated

Assuming ARI falls out of playoff contention. Stecher has performed quite well this year on the 2nd pair. He's by no means the perfect target, but he's attainable & defensively sound.

What needs to be added to get this done?

ARI seems like they'd have a spot behind Moser & Valimaki while they wait for Simashev, so an established, strong skating D like Kulak could fit their team & timeline.

Cap retained because it brings Kulak's cap hit more in-line with the value of the position he'd play. Part of the value here is freeing up cap space for additional moves or to absorb some of Brown's bonuses.

Assuming NJ falls out of playoff contention. Aside from being Ryan's brother, McLeod is pretty much exactly what EDM needs in a 3C: right shot, elite on the dot (over 66% right now), fast, & physical.

What (if anything) needs to be added to get this done?

I have no idea how to properly value him but, given the qualities he brings are qualities that NJ also needs, I imagine an overpayment would be required. As such, I started with a 1st.

The earlier Kulak trade would be intended to help clear space to retain McLeod on a longer term deal.