Goaltending is still pretty rough.

Not really cap compliant. 21-man roster with 200k in cap space. I don't think that COL trade needs to happen at all.

Also don't think Garland is necessary if we get Fiala.

Canucks pass, package doesn't fit our needs

Perhaps, I'm one of the bigger believers in Blackwood tho.
FWIW Driedger's got decent GSAx60 despite his below .900.

Cap as you say is the main issue, but maybe Bernier's LTIR can make this situation work throughout an entire season.

I think Behrens is worth taking on EJ but I take your point in that the COL and VAN trades easily could be undone and just keep Smith on the 3rd pair.
But this AGM wouldn't be as fun without those imo.

COL declines.
Behrens is without a doubt there best D prospect and wouldnt be moved to shed EJ.
If COL cant find a trade partner for EJ, they could fit his cap space or even buy him out.

COL declines that trade. Behrens is probably their only remaining viable d prospect, and if they really wanted Dadonov Sakic isn’t going to pay a premium to get him second hand even at a discount, besides VGK isn’t going to include Hague a cost controlled asset to move him.

A small LD playing his off side is not really what Vancouver is looking for. No fit there at all.

Counterpoint: more good players is better than fewer good players

I honestly don't hate the tandem. Goaltender options are limited without taking big risks, Driedger seems like one of the less-risky options if we're looking for a bounce-back.

21-man roster with no cap space can't make this situation work throughout the entire season. Two guys go down with minor injuries/illnesses (and we've had loads of that this season) and we're likely dressing less than 20 players. And that's of course only if Bernier is actually LTIR'd, which is a big if.

COL trade is more about the cap than the prospect. Although LD is the last thing the Devils need in regards to prospects. And 5'10" defencemen really aren't Fitz's type.

I love your explanation of the Anaheim trade.