I would do all of these except the Saros deal. Mercer is not on the table unless it's 1 for 1 with 50% retention on Saros

pretty much this

I am aware that Nashville would not go for this. But that is simply what it would take to get mercer. He wasn't even put on the table in Meier trade talks

I don’t understand how you think a first wouldn’t be involved in a potential Hanifin trade.

Flames easily pass on this

Calgary declines and Jersey declines the Nashville trade.

The thing is that Trotz has already stated his intent to sign Saros, but will listen to offers. Goalies who work Saros's workload and are routinely top 5 in the league don't grow on trees. For anyone, not just NJD, to land Saros the deal has to be worth it for NSH, and a top 6 C or a top pairing RD need to be included, and Trotz is going to ask for more on top of that.

For Trotz to trade him, it's likely going to end up looking like an overpay.

My approximate list of valuations considering I have 0 ties to the devils. (This is just what pops into my head)

1st+Casey+2nd for 50% retained Saros
2 late 1sts for Saros
Holtz+late 1st for Saros 50%
Mercer for Saros 50%
Holtz+2nd for Saros
2 late 1sts+Lenni for Saros at 50%

Holtz for Askarov
Casey+2nd for Askarov
1st+2nd+3rd for Askarov

Askarov is likely not going to be traded. He has progressed to well for NSH to part with him and fits NSH's timeline better. I'm not saying Saros can't fit it, but moving Saros likely makes the most sense. I'd be 100% on board for your first Saros deal, and imo it is the one that makes the most sense I think for both teams. NSH gets a projected top pair RD who can match with Molendyk for the future, and a couple of high draft picks to help them with other needs and NJD solves their goalie troubles and who can help them win a cup for really cheap for the next 2 years.