NHL Rumors: Buffalo Sabres and Jeff Skinner close to decision
According to Bob McKenzie, the latest NHL rumors have the Buffalo Sabres and Jeff Skinner close to deciding whether or not to part ways. He’ll either sign in the next few days or hit free agency.
The Buffalo Sabres are facing a huge offseason. Most of their attention so far has been directed towards re-signing Jeff Skinner, who scored 40 goals last season. The Sabres got him in a trade with the Carolina Hurricanes. According to the latest NHL rumors, the two sides might be close to something.
This report comes from Bob McKenzie. The two sides have been going back and forth in talks, but so far, they have yet to agree to an extension. If Skinner and the Sabres can’t work something out by July 1, he’ll be a free agent.
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McKenzie notes the deal is likely going to be for eight years, which makes sense for the relatively young Skinner. The cap hit seems like it will be around $9 million. Buffalo would probably like him closer to $8.5 million while Skinner’s camp is likely pushing for it to be closer to $9.5 million. $9 million would be right between those two asks.
While $9 million seems high for Skinner, it’s worth noting he holds a lot of leverage in this situation. He knows the Sabres need to re-sign him. Letting go of Skinner after a 40 goal season would be crushing for the franchise.
Buffalo’s fans have dealt with a lot over the past few years. Losing someone like Skinner could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. It would make the Sabres look cheap, as Skinner wouldn’t be the first popular player their ownership has let walk.
Last season, Skinner had one of the best seasons of his NHL career. He scored a career-high 40 goals while tying his previous career high with 63 points. However, Skinner didn’t finish the season strong, which is why the Sabres would prefer an average annual value around $8 to $8.5 million.
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Recently, the Sabres hired Ralph Krueger as their head coach. He has reportedly had some positive discussions with Skinner, which has them optimistic he’ll stick around. The Sabres have made keeping him around their top priority, so expect the two sides to work something out. Deep down, the two sides need each other.