Possible starting lines next year

Why do you think Risto will be traded?

Thier is nothing indicating Risto will be traded and Montour is far from the saviour everyone thought he'd be. Sabres need more than one good rhd. Trading Risto just adds to them spinning their tires for years to come

He was being shopped actively at the deadline. Signs are pointing that he could be dealt

Every statistic in the book other than ice time says Risto gone is a good thing. Also Montour isn't meant to be the savior but he's better than every RHD on this roster

All being said I love Risto. Up until recently always have. Loved the big guy getting fiesty and pushing forward. However this season I took an unemotional approach at his game. He's bad. Turns the puck over and does nothing to help Buffalo attack out of their own zone. If we can get something for him we'd be dumb not too. If Risto was a third pairing getting paid two mil I'd have no problem. But he's playing top minutes earning 5 mil. And you can argue that is because he plays against the stars that he does bad but he struggles even against Ottawa and Detroit.