I like the trade targets. If we did end up pushing for these trades before the deadline, then I would put forward the following for Ekholm:

Kristian Vesalainen, Logan Stanley, a 2nd from this year and Columbus' third from next year. (Jets would not want to give up a first round pick, especially with Vesalainen and Stanley on the board).

one more trade option is david savard could do niku, harkins and a 2nd and late round pick

Miller shouldn't cost you much. Surely the Sabres would be happy with Niku or Stanley plus a middling draft pick?

Wouldn't give that much even, a couple middling picks is all he's worth.

Probably true.