If Flames are getting Hertl at 75% retention, someone at league minimum would have to go still

Oilers cant afford to take Varlamov. Let alone at 50% of his cap. Would need Isles to be taking something back salary-wise.

They would be able to take one of their ELC guys and drop him into the minors or make another secondary move. Just an idea too, someone could take a lesser prospect

Yup, 100%. Added Koskinen to the trade to make the money work

Doesnt look like quite enough for Hertl to me.

That’s an easy no from the sharks. Hertl half retained for a 1st and a LD, which they don’t any of, isn’t getting it done. Also these types of middle man retention deals have only yielded 4ths at best, I don’t see a team giving up a 3rd for that. I guarantee there’s another team with cap space that would do it for cheaper.

islanders getting almost a much to retain 25% as the sharks are getting for the player

Also want to add that the Sharks-Calgary deal does not have to be completed there. I'm not as up on Calgary's prospect pool or any players San Jose would be interested in. Would love to hear some ideas on what might be going back

Blues cannot afford Pavelskis cap