Article Written By: Adam Wible
The Buffalo Sabres have already made a blockbuster trade this season, when they traded then Captain Thomas Vanek to New York. Vanek is doing well at his new home on Long Island, as the Islanders make a final dash for the playoffs.
Being the worst team in the league with star players is a rough commodity. Especially with for the likes of winger Matt Moulson and goalie Ryan Miller. Moulson came over in the Vanek trade, as well as, this years 1st round pick and next years 2nd round pick. Moulson leads the team with 14 goals and 17 assists between Long Island and Buffalo. So what is Buffalo looking to get for the pair of stars?
“Lots,” an NHL exec said. “A Minimum of a First round pick and a top prospect. And I’m not even sure they even want a first in this years draft.” The NHL exec hinted at next years draft, and OHL’s Erie superstar Connor McDavid- the one everybody is eyeing at number one next year. Who’s interested?
The NHL exec above claims Ottawa has been on the horn recently and really making a push for Moulson. This move makes sense as Ottawa is looking to rebuild, and the talent Matt brings to the locker room is one of a kind.
Another team that makes sense and that is showing interest is the Los Angeles Kings. Matt was Drafted by LA and made his debut in 2007 playing 29 games. If LA decides to make the trade, expect a young winger that can step in and fill the void. Jordan Nolan or Dwight King, as well as, a few picks seem to make the most sense.
One thing is for certain Kings GM Dean Lombardi has made a few long distance calls to Buffalo over the last 48 hours, it’ll be interesting to see this one play out.
As for Team USA goalie Ryan Miller.
The talks have been up there as Miller is in the final year of his contract, and Buffalo can not afford to let Ryan just pack up and leave. Resigning Ryan is the best solution. Between Miller and Jonas Enroth, the Sabres have two Olympic goaltenders on their roster.
The asking price for Miller is high. Definite 1st and 2nd round picks is a must, along with a couple young up and coming prospects. Ideally, Buffalo should lock in both players to the long term. They just started having Moulson wear the ‘A’ on his jersey. Though that’s no guarantee, in the last two seasons Buffalo has shipped both former captains away (Jason Pominville and Thomas Vanek).