Originally Posted by blayze

This is one of those rare situations where I completely disagree with you. I think that's a horrible negotiation tactic, and I practically negotiate for a living.

Negotiation 101 - always be the one to drop the initial anchor because if there's a deal to be done, the final result will most likely gravitate closer to where the anchor was first dropped since it forms the starting point for discussions. ALWAYS be the one to make the first offer - the key is that the offer is compelling to him (ie: addresses his team's needs) and obviously credible (ie: not insulting). Anytime someone has to ask me "who do you want", I almost know instantly that I'm going to be able to get the better of that person.

Also, I find it kind of insulting and lazy to just go to a guy and ask "I want Malkin, who do you want?". YOU'RE the one interested in HIS player... so it's on you to do the research and make him an enticing offer. Can you imagine Stevie Y calling up Mike Gillis and saying "Hey Mike, I really want Luongo, what would it take?". It reeks of desperation and shows that you've put no thought or work into it.