Any potential deal with Columbus for Duchene that includes Murray is a non-starter. If the Avs wanted him, this deal would have been made months ago. The defenseman that has to come back is Carlsson.

If we dealt Carlsson they would not get much else back in return. Sakic has overplayed his hand is soon will be facing the bitter truth of having to deal him for less than he wanted. In this deal Sakic would get three players he could install into his lineup for immediate and long term improvement.

Works for me

No retained salary and swap Duchene for Soderberg.

Sakic doesnt give a ****, there is no pressure on him to make the playoffs this year, all he has to worry about is developing the young guys. Pressure is on Jarmo to get past first round. Duchene has been on the trade block for 2 years why would Sakic sell low now?

Sakic hasn't overplayed his hand. He has Duchene under contract for two more years and the stories of his discontent with the team in the national media is overblown. Sakic can just wait until one of these teams under pressure to make the playoffs finally gains the stones to meet his asking price. And if they don't? This is a lost season anyway. He can wait it out as long as necessary.

Well, not as long as necessary, but until NEXT season's trade deadline anyway. However, rental return is probably lower than you'd get for a 2 year or 1.5 year (this years deadline) contract.