Gonna take way more than that to move up from 17-8. I like the idea and could see Buffalo doing it for the right price but it would have to be significant.

I think Vesalainen is a bust but wouldn't trade him for Määtä nor do I think you'd get that much for him anyway, there's a ton of dmen available in free agency and a lot of teams that are in a cap crunch that might have to give some guys away, no reason to part with a decent prospect when there should be more affordable ways to acquire a dman.

Buffalo easily declines

NSH declines. That's a significant overpayment for Saad and Nylander.

I don't think 11OA is on the table. And I wouldn't pay a 1st for Saad anyway. He hasn't hit (and wasn't on pace for) 50 points in his past 3 seasons. I like him well enough, but I'm not giving up 11OA for a pending UFA that will likely want a raise when he hasn't earned it.

It's not just points your paying for. Saad is like a mini Hossa, not as skilled offensively though. He can shoot, he can pass, and he can play defense. He's also a smooth skater. Penalty kill, power play, 5 on 5, he can do it all

If 11OA were on the table for a roster player, I think there are many better options than Saad. I wouldn't be interested in Nylander for a 2nd either. Watson could be yours for a pick though.

NSH just doesn't really need to spend 11OA for a middle 6 forward. I like Saad, but if I decide I want him on NSH, I'd just go after him in free agency if he gets there.