As a Sabres fan, I'd love that Minnesota trade but I think there's less than a zero chance it ever happens - Pegula isn't going to swallow his pride and pay $5M for the next 5 years on Eichel, even if Adams and his staff lobby the logic of maximizing the return. And by some miracle that the Sabres agree to retain 50%, I can't see Guerin caving in by giving up his top 2 prospects AND two 1st rounders.

I suspect Calgary and Vegas are the more likely partners because each is 'win now' mode and shown themselves to be willing to deal prospects/picks - but if the Wild were to be the partner, I'd be thrilled if the package for Eichel was reduced to Rossi + 1st rounder + Rask (or Zuccarello, if he would waive his NMC) for Eichel with no salary retained.

I also think the defense pairings will very likely see Granato continue with the chemistry that Dahlin-Jokiharju showed and that the Butcher-Pysyk pairing will end up as the second option. Whether or not MIller (or Bryson) stay, either would be Hagg's partner on the third pairing IMO.

That's possible. Dahlin and Miller also showed chemistry when they played time together a few years ago.

True - but Miller at age 29 probably won't last beyond the trade deadline as a pending UFA, if he isn't traded before then. Adams has made the whole focus about the young core and Granato's reliance on Dahlin-Jokiharju last season (which sparked each player) seems like a recipe they'll want to continue not just into this season but likely for the next 4-5 years.

I dont think the sabres are in any hurry to retain, especially 50%. The return you have here is substantial, i wonder if they would agree to 3 million. Also, i like olofsson, dont want to trade him, and especially dont want to waste a second retention spot right now.

You may be right. I chose to break them up for the time being

I don't want to pay him his next contract and I worry about his production away from eichel and Reinhart.

He didnt play with them when he led the shl in scoring or when he scored 30 in 66 games in rochester. He scores goals, hopefully his 5v5 gets better.

I mean, those are lesser leagues.

It's been said many times wild aren't trading both of boldy, and Rossi for eichel

No team is retaining $25M. The Leafs paid a 1st to shed $6M.