Buffalo declines easily.

Why would buffalo do this?

Possibly. Not sure the league values Ristolainen the way Botterill does though and there likely aren’t many other teams who can offer an immediate contributor. Wennberg’s game theoretically works well with Skinner’s and he’s also a UFA one year later than Ristolainen.

In part, I agree, but if Risto is still in the team in October, then Botterill is not going to back down from this price. Especially now a new coach has come and Risto looks good playing 25 minutes a night. Wennberg after last season simply did not have much value because of his fall.

Larsson is worth more than both of the players you traded to Buffalo. This is laughable to the extreme. I fail to see how you get a starting goalie+ for a 4th line center and 7th D.

Both those players have more value than Larsson. The trade is bad for Buffalo but...c’mon.

If Botterill doesnt get what he wants, Sabres keep Risto. He's got 3 years left on his contract. Risto has been great for the Sabres. They have no reason to force a trade and Botterill has already been embarrassed by forcing a trade. Also, why woulnd Buffalo just make that Zona trade. Also also, Wennberg and Harrington dont get you Raanta and Merkley, so why would you think it gets Risto and Larsson.