they would start the negotiations with Dahlin+

And the negotiations would stop at that

McJesus would probably cost you both Eichel+Dahlin and no way Botterill does that.

probably not, it would be Eichel OR Dahlin but not both. between the 2 EDM would likely want Dahlin though. value wise it's a fair trade EDM's ask would be something like Dahlin, Middelstadt and a 1st

Dahlin+Middelstadt+1st should be a decent return for McDavid.

And in 3 when years after Dahlin scores 80 pts and wins his first Norris trophy, Botterill will say McDavid, Draisaitl and a first will be a fair deal for Dahlin. I know McDavid is amazing, but forwards can step into the league a little easier than defensemen. In the history of hockey only Housley had more pts than Dahlin as an 18yo, and Phil did that when pts were a lot easier to get. Buffalo will not be trading Dahlin, this year or within the next 10 years. Let's see if he can back up his promise that the Sabres will make the playoffs THIS year.

i completely agree, i was more aiming to show that to trade for an 'untouchable' you need to send one back.

Um no