I really don't think Lysell gets you Couture, let alone with that much retention. He's still a really good two way player. Also retaining on that contract would mean the Sharks couldn't retain on another contract until 2025, that would hinder any possible returns for other trade candidates.

The open issue is no team is taking Couture’s contract without significant retention. 8m AAV over 34 through 38 year old contract is arguably one of the riskiest deals in all of hockey. He’s still good, but that contract is likely a massive negative before it ends. Couture is worth more to the Sharks then other teams.

His market value is the similar as Backlund who signed a 2 year, 4.5m AAV contract extension.

The more I think about this, I stay away from the deal I just proposed. Lysell is probably a better prospect than you should expect for an older player. I’d rather not include him

Despite the good start, I still think the Bruins haven't proved enough yet to make this seem like a year to contend. We will see as time goes on. But for now, I wouldn't trade the future for the present.

Couture isn't a 1C and will turn 35yo this season. Easy pass.

You spelt Hertl wrong.

I think you are right. I don’t think Boston goes after Couture. Too many reasons for both sides to not do it and it likely could make the negotiations for another player negative.

If a Hertl trade happens this year, it will be with a goalie going to another team (think Edmonton). Cap wise, you can’t really get to Hertl’s salary without a goalie involved and I don’t see Boston trading Swayman.

In the offseason, I could see the return from Ullmark plus Lysell going to San Jose for Hertl before free agency if they don’t like their options

I do think there is a deal there if both sides want it.

Depending on the amount of LTIR the bruins accumulate, Hertl at the deadline may work.