Équipe: 2017-18 Sabres de Buffalo

Date de création initiale: 15 mai 2017

Publié: 28 mai 2017

Mode - plafond salarial: Basique

This is my 1st attempt at one of these, hope to hear feedback!

Overview:

I really don't think Buffalo is far off from being a good team, just need to fix up the blue line and coaching I think was the biggest problem. Bylsma's scheme just wasn't working and is outdated. For this offseason, I don't think the sabres need to make many moves. First, I see so many people giving up on Reinhart already and want him traded. Reinhart is only 22 and is establishing himself as a top-six forward with the Sabres. He is skilled and is a versatile playmaker. He's only been in the NHL for 2 seasons and I think just because some players like Leon Draisaitl who was drafted after him at 3rd overall have been having more success than him, people are quick to call him a bust. He is still developing and will be a big piece for the sabres down the road.

As for Evander Kane, he is coming off a very good season even after missing some games. I do think it would be a great move to extend Kane down the road for cap reasons, but he’s a hell of a hockey player. Honestly, anything can happen with Kane and the sabres, I see them having him at the beginning of the season, but see him being traded most likely by the trade deadline this upcoming season.

Some FA/Trade Explanations:

Kris Versteeg is only 31 and an experienced player, debuting in 2006. Versteeg posted a 37 point season in Calgary on their 3rd line. Versteeg became one of there more versatile players in the lineup. He is someone that can add some veteran leadership to a very young team .

Matt Moulson's time in Buffalo I think is pretty much over. The problems with Moulson is his contract, the term of the contract, the money, and he just doesn’t fit what this team needs, he's coming off a decent season but I think that he will be selected by Vegas to add some veteran leadership to a new team, also his connection with Vegas GM George McPhee could be another reason he is selected.

I see Gionta making a return this season. He has stated that he would like to sign an extension and with GM Botterill's view on veteran players, I think he will respect that and give Gionta a small extension.

The Sabres biggest need all year has been on the backend. I don't see them re-signing Franson or Kulikov, they might resign Kulikov but probably for a sign and trade. I think they should go after a guy like Josh Manson from Anaheim. Josh is only 25 years old and is a solid shutdown defenseman. He plays a physical style on defense and uses his size to advantage, he is a reliable player in his own end and skates well for a player of his size. Also, additions like Viktor Antipin and Brandon Guhle most likely making the roster this season is big improvements.

Lastly, I don't know how realistic it is but Vanek could make a return to Buffalo. He's coming off a decent season putting up decent numbers and would be a nice addition for a season or 2.

1.

2.