You don't need to trade an entire third line.

Ditch Jost or compher. And frankly without retention that seems like a lot

Yeah you're probably right. I went a bit overboard there, probably enough with 3-4 of these assets instead of 5, even though it is a bit quantity over quality. Perhaps there could be some retention or a pick coming back. An extension would probably make this more reasonable too.

I think it could be necessary to overpay a little bit to land a big fish like this, particularly as teams like Vegas and NYR won't be shy about paying big to secure a top center.

Barron/Ranta + 1st is enough

Pass

From the avs I'd want Newhook or its an instant no.

Not enough trade return to the Sharks.

I’d consider Newhook for an extended Hertl.

So, what's the drug of choice?

You can ask for Newhook, but the reality is that Hertl is a pending UFA with a 3 team trade list, meaning that he can essentially completely control the destination, thus likely keeping any asking price reasonable.

Ron Wilson's hands would be tied if Hertl decides Colorado is the team he wants to go to, and as THE cup favourite among most betting sites and analysts chances are that Hertl would be positive about a move to Colorado.

What's more, Avs will have tonnes of capspace in 2022 and a whole 2nd line to fill, so there's absolutely a possibility of talking extension with Hertl, with or without it being an agreed extension prior to the trade.