Blockbuster Rumor: Buffalo looking to pull off huge trade with Calgary

While it's been reported for many months that the Calgary Flames are/should consider moving Johnny Gaudreau , recently one team has circled 'Johnny Hockey' on their radar. Insert the Buffalo Sabres. A team that made major changes off the ice, ownership is now demanding major changes on the ice. Pairing Eichel with his fellow American pal, would be a huge step in the right direction for the Sabres.

Eric Francis of Sportsnet made it clear if the Flames don't have success in these playoffs, expect a move. With the Sabres in mind, there appears to be a perfect fit for both clubs. The Flames are going to be desperate for defencemen, and the Sabres have riches to pull from.

The expected deal would be built around the Sabres receiving Gaudreau, with Buffalo sending Rasmus Ristolainen and Sam Reinhart to Calgary.

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Reinhart, 24, is a restricted free agent this upcoming off season, and will be looking for a raise from his $3.65 million dollar contract this season. Ristolainen is still only 25, and has 2 years left on his deal, at $5.4 million. He would replace Travis Hamonic and potentially TJ Brodie, as the Flames have 5 pending UFA d-men.

Gaudreau struggled this season before the pandemic pause. Although, he's coming off seasons of 99 and 84 points, the Flames will be reluctant to move him without receiving a forward back who can score. Reinhart's 70 point potential would help replace some of the production, and it would allow for Matthew Tkachuk to step up into permanent first-line duties. Gaudreau doesn't have trade protection in his contract and is due a $3.5 million dollar signing bonus before next season. More fuel for the Flames to pull the trigger.

The Buffalo Sabres are trying to do whatever they can to make captain, Jack Eichel happy. Bringing in one of his close friends and to be Olympic teammates may not be the answer, but it's certainly a start. Keep an eye on the Sabres, they will be one of the busiest teams this upcoming off season.

Photo credit:  John Crouch/Icon Sportswire