It is no secret that the Sabres are interested in the services of former Predators and Maple Leafs defenseman Cody Franson, who is one of the few top free agents who is still on the market. Now, we have a reported offer. The Sabres are looking to sign Franson to a two-year contract according to Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News.
A six-year NHL vet, Franson split 78 games between Toronto and Nashville last season, scoring seven goals and 29 assists. He was touted as one of the top pending defensive free agents coming into the season, but a poor showing in his return to Nashville hurt his stock. Although he’s a solid point producer, he’s been known to get caught out of position. He would be a nice addition to the Sabres powerplay unit, which has struggled mightily the past two seasons.
Franson has been tied to contenders earlier this off-season, including Columbus and Pittsburgh. The most recent rumors have made the Bruins out to be the frontrunners.
The 28-year-old defenseman made $3.3 million last season and is likely looking for a pay raise. A two-year deal makes sense for the Sabres, who will have to deal with adding big contracts in Ryan O’Reilly, Jack Eichel, Zemgus Girgensons, Sam Reinhart and Rasmus Ristolainen in the next couple of years. A long-term deal at a big number could leave the Sabres strapped for cash.