The Sabres could use more scoring depth
Lance Lysowski: Buffalo Sabres GM Jason Botterill said that they will try to add some more scoring depth in free agency but adds the trade route is more “realistic.”
Jared Clinton of The Hockey News: Jeff Skinner‘s $9 million may be more than many estimated his value at. The Sabres did need scoring and still could use more.
The Sabres do have the salary cap space – still having over $20 million – so it doesn’t hinder their cap flexibility now and in the immediate future.
They’ll have another $28 million coming off the books next offseason. Some players will need extensions, but there is enough money.
Potential landing spots for Turris
Adam Vingan of The Athletic: (mailbag) Teams that might have an interest and the salary cap space for Nashville Predators center Kyle Turris.
Columbus Blue Jackets – Could lose UFA center Matt Duchene. Pierre LeBrun suggested a potential sign-and-trade involving Duchene and Turris. Would cost their Blue Jackets their 2020 1st round pick though for ‘re-signing’ Duchene.
Vancouver Canucks – Turris would be their third line center and they may not want to pay $6 million for that.
Buffalo Sabres – Need a second line center and have the cap space.
Detroit Red Wings – Turris and Anthony Mantha developed some chemistry at the World Championship.
Ottawa Senators – Turris has some ties to the community and he was a fan favorite.
Believe that it’s unlikely that the Predators trade defenseman Ryan Ellis.
Top 20 NHL free agents
Craig Custance of The Athletic: Top 20 unrestricted free agents
1. Artemi Panarin – Blue Jackets
2. Erik Karlsson – Sharks
3. Matt Duchene – Blue Jackets
4. Sergei Bobrovsky – Blue Jackets
5. Jeff Skinner – Sabres
6. Joe Pavelski – Sharks
7. Anders Lee – Islanders
8. Jake Gardiner – Maple Leafs
9. Mats Zuccarello – Stars
10. Tyler Myers – Jets
11. Brock Nelson – Islanders
12. Robin Lehner – Islanders
13. Jordan Eberle – Islanders
14. Gustav Nyquist – Sharks
15. Alex Edler – Canucks
16. Anton Stralman – Lightning
17. Kevin Hayes – Flyers
18. Micheal Ferland – Hurricanes
19. Ryan Dzingel – Blue Jackets
20. Marcus Johansson – Bruins