I don't see them parting with Foote even if it means unloading Cally's contract, not unless you are talking about Edler which is not going to happen.

I'll give Tampa Spurgeon for Callahan's contract, Foote, and Stephens.

I agree with you that the trade favors Buffalo, but Foote is only a prospect, the 3rd is nearly a 4th and BrisBois seems to want a tough RHD and win this year. Maybe make it Taylor Raddysh instead and make the 3rd a 2nd. Or this may work, Callahan could be a leader to help the TBL win the cup. So Bogosian for Taylor Raddysh and 2nd plus future consideration. Then in the off season, if the Bolts won the cup the Sabres get Callahan for nothing to help TBL cut their cap. IDK, but it may work.

What would you want from the Sabres for Spurgeon?

I do agree that Callahan would likely waive his NTC or have Buffalo as one of the permitted teams if it meant going home. I could see the lightning keeping Callahan for the playoffs and doing a supplemental trade in the off-season thereby giving Callahan a chance at the cup as a Bolt then the cap relief for next year.

Ristolainen.

I sort of figured that, I think the talent exchange may actually favor MIN, but the age difference would discourage Betterall from making that trade.

That and Risto's contract/cost certainty. I think it is certainly something both teams would have to think about.

I agree, but if you notice the players Betterall has brought into the team are 26 or younger, he has been very patient and taken a lot of criticism for trading away O'Reilly and Kane. But since he as picked up Montour, I suspect many may want to reconsider their negative comments (who would not trade Kane for Montour, or O'Reilly for Montour, Thompson and a 2nd).

I would love for the Wild to package a deal for Risto and Thompson!

I am open to that deal. IMO Thompson will not reach his potential until he is closer to 22 or even 23. But maybe Betterall would make deal. BTW do you think MIN has given up this year? I never thought the Sabres were a playoff team, they lack depth and playoff caliber GK.

They have not given up...even though I advised them too...