Crossing The NHL’s Atlantic Division: Week 23
By Tim Bayer
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Buffalo Sabres
By James Gleason of Editor In Leaf
It was a busy week for the Buffalo Sabres and their front office. As the deadline came and went, deals were made to better the direction of the franchise, and people – who some thought would stay and make an impact – were suddenly let go. With everything that has gone on, Tim Murray has been a calming presence and has made some fantastic deals. First, he shipped Ryan Miller and forward Steve Ott to the St. Louis Blues for goaltender Jaroslav Halak, Chris Stewart, prospect William Carrier, a 2015 first-round pick and a conditional 2016 third-round pick. The Sabres would not waste time dealing Halak as they swapped goaltenders with the Washington Capitals. The Caps would get Halak and a 2015 third-rounder for young goaltender Michal Neuvirth and defenseman Rostislav Klesla.
Matt Moulson, another Sabre caught in the rumour mill, was eventually shipped to the Minnasota Wild along with enforcer Cody McCormick for Torrey Mitchell and two second-round picks in 2014 and 2016. Moulson will join former Sabre Jason Pominville in Minnesota.
The Sabres’ first move of the deadline was to move Brayden McNabb to the Los Angeles Kings, along with Jonathan Parker and two second-round picks, for prospect Hunter Fasching, Nicholas Deslaurier and another prospect. Buffalo would also claim forward Cory Conacher from waivers.
Die By The Blade has an article pointing out that general manager Tim Murray may not be done making moves, despite the deadline passing.
Sabre Noise has a poll asking readers which move was best for the team.