Also, in Oilers fans' opinion, how close are Holloway, Broberg, Lavoie, Bouchard, Lagesson, and Mcleod to becoming full time NLHers? What are their ceilings?

So Kane was the sharks best offensive player, has a fair deal and only goes til hes 32. And you think he and James Neal is even close to a fair swap?

It takes him to 33, almost 34 actually. Also like I said, I am not sure the exact value. Maybe switch the 2nd for a 1st.

Holloway and Broberg could likely be fringe NHLers already but will probably get full year in AHL. Lavoie will need couple years in AHL needs work on defensive game and work ethic to become a pro. Lagesson is a 3rd pairing or 7th D already still with potential to grow into steady defensive D. Bouchard and McLeod will and should be fulltime NHLers next year

Yeah ill be honest, you arent even starting from a close place. Neal on his own costs a first to move. Kane is entirely positive and high value and if you arent going to treat it that way theres no deal to be made.

Yeah fair enough, maybe I'm off on the value there. I do still think there's a deal to be made though because San Jose could take the bad contracts back and Edmonton could really use Kane. What do you think a fair offer would be, value-wise?

Im not sure you want to know. Marleau cost a mid first at 1 year 6 million before the pandemic so James Neal would have to cost atleast 2 edm firsts plus to move you would assume. By Himself I think Kane could get a pretty good prospect and a first, although thats assuming SJ would want to trade him, which at the current moment doesnt look like its going to happen.

Some people understandly think the Sharks will rebuild, but management has made it clear they expect to get back into the playoffs soon, so I wouldnt expect anyone good to move off the sharks for futures unless the deal is a serious overpayment.

Holloway
Ready - in mid 2021-22 (after 30 or so games in the AHL)
Ceiling - 2nd line winger; 50-65 pts/season

Broberg -
Ready - start of 2022-23 season
Ceiling - 2nd pairing LHD, two-way force, 20-30 pts season.

Lavoie
Ready - start of 2022-23 season
Ceiling - 1st line RW, 35-40G/season. High upside sniper. But also has a low floor.

Bouchard -
Ready - start of 2021-22 (next) season
Ceiling - 2nd pairing RHD and poweplay ace. 35-50 pts season. Good, but not Norris trophy good.

Lagesson -
Ready - start of 2021-22 (next) season
Ceiling - 3rd pairing LHD. Plays physical and kills penalties. 15-17 min/game.

McLeod
Ready - start of 2021-22 (next) season
Ceiling - 3C. Speedy utility player. 30-40 pts/year, solid two-way game

"he's not nearly as good as Kane" 152 pts to 60 pts. He's not even in the same league. Neal's contract is buyout proof so that by itself causes a premium. You are at least 2 prospects and pick short.

The Sharks can't go full tank. The season ticket base simply wont allow for it. There are too many other option here for the sports dollars to be spent. You are more likely to see a double down on trying to win in the next 2-3 yrs then a tank.