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Should the Sabres Pursue Patrik Laine?

Jan 19, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Patrik Laine (29) skates against the Anaheim Ducks in the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Good news came on Friday afternoon, as NHLer Patrik Laine has been cleared to return from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. With that news comes speculation about Laine’s future and where he could end up playing when the season comes around in a few short months. Laine and his agent have reportedly requested a trade, and teams are now free to contact the player, but the question for us is: should the Buffalo Sabres be interested?

In a word: yes.

A couple points to be aware of:

  • Laine is still recovering from shoulder surgery & his timeline is unclear.
  • Laine has two years left on his contract with an $8.7 million AAV. He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026. His contract has a modified 10-team no-trade clause.
  • Per Aaron Portzline, the Blue Jackets “are likely to seek draft picks and prospects… as opposed to a roster player.” Portzline also noted that Columbus may need to retain some salary in order to make a deal happen.

On paper, it seems to make sense for the Buffalo Sabres to be pursue Laine. He’s a flexible forward who can play wing or center in a pinch. He’s still only 26 – a decent age – and already has 388 points in 480 career NHL regular season games. The former 2nd-overall draft pick (2016, Winnipeg) could fill the gap left by Jeff Skinner’s buyout and would provide much-needed offensive depth for the Sabres.

What are your thoughts?

Talking Points