That defense still has holes IMO. I just don't see Zaitsev as a top 4 guy. And I'm not too thrilled with the idea of trading Brown to get Braun

Well actually the defense I proposed only has one Holl

Instead of Carrick, would you be interested in parting with McElhinney?

I like getting Braun... but Spezza...12 points in 78 games... overall I can see the Leafs doing well with this. If the leafs are gonna trade anyone though I would say Martin almost 100%, Marleau or Zaitsev for cap space and maybe gardiner.

the Leafs could do that, Sparks is the best current AHL goalie and McElhinney has almost no use in Toronto now

Right. He's a sufficient backup for an injury prone goalie like Bishop. He'd be a great stop-gap for Dallas until Landon Bow is ready to be the backup for the Stars. And honestly, the only way I see Dallas being able to move Spezza is to retain 50% of his contract, which is doable for the Stars. The $3.75M off of our books would help a ton when signing someone like JVR this offseason.

Not sure if SAN Jose is open to trading Braun, maybe get Tanev instead

Spezza would be a great plan B and would most likely thrive in Toronto playing with skilled players as opposed to the pylons he played win last year. (26 points)
Dallas doesn't need Carrick and he would be an overpayment, all things considered. Pickard makes the most sense if it's a goalie they want.

The Leafs don't need cap space and unless Dubas had no involvement in any of those signings, none of the guys you mentioned will get dealt.