retooling a contender

Why would the Sabres do that? They could've just paid ullmark what he wanted if the Sabres wanted to keep him.

The Buffalo media would have a field day with that trade, considering how it was Luukkonen's potential as a future starter that in part led to Buffalo letting Ullmark walk away and such a trade would be a 180 flip on that forecast. I think Sabres' fans would generally welcome Ullmark back but the Bruins would have to retain salary if they want 2 picks + Luukkonen.......and then there's the liklihood that Ullmark wouldn't waive his NMC for a reunion in Buffalo anyway, especially if he'd be facing another situation where the organization has more faith in a prospect (Levi).

1. I seriously doubt that Buffalo isn’t on Ullmark’s no trade clause

2. Giving up a 3rd to get off Reilly when you can cut him is a mistake

I believe his motives were term and a better team. He has his contract and the Sabres are way better. I feel he'd be fine going back to Buffalo.