Sabres aren't giving up assets for an expiring ufa

Yeah I forgot to say that Horvat extends in Buffalo

I'm keeping the first, extension or not. Chances are very good that any extension he signs is basically what he would get if he hit ufa anyways. It's not doing us any favors. Keep the pick, draft an A prospect, and figure out a better way to spend 60-70 million over the next 7-8 years.

Buffalo is not in a position to be trading for pending UFAs who will want big money and term.

No thanks. We aren't in a position to be giving max term to guys in their late 20s for big money

I know the Sabres probably aren't in a position to trade for Horvat, but I'm just wondering just from a value perspective is Mittelstadt and a protected 1st (without Jokiharju) for Horvat extended fair

The problem is, we need to find a replacement for Jokiharju right away. Our main need is the top 4 RD. Mittelstadt and Cozens are unstable, but at least they are NHL players and young, and in our defense there is an epidemic of injuries and there is simply no one to play there.

In fact, I am attracted to the idea of Horvat, he is 27 years old, if he were already 30 I would definitely say no. Our core is young, but we also have experienced players. Tuch is 26, Thompson is 25, Horvat could fit well into that. And guys like Cozens or Savoie also look great on the wing if need be. Though I'm sure Adams probably won't even be interested in it. So far, he has not improve roster at all due to such trades, he prefers to build from the inside.

I think because of the strength of the draft class, if you are looking for a first in the 23 draft class, it's gonna be from a team that's picking in the late 20s. Mittlestadts value is not adding significantly to the package. Plus, as we likely aren't making the playoffs with or without horvat (things are looking better, but our division is merciless), and there isn't any discount with the extension, I just don't see a reason to give up anything meaningful.

Yeah, I’d say that’s fair
50/50 whether Buffalo would do it though (imo)

Horvat would be great addition, it is unlikely the Sabres will trade a first to bring him in.
Maybe in the off season they could sign him, Patrick Kane, Ryan Johnson and a top 4 RHD.