Rumor: Sabres Working On A Deal With Kraken For A Veteran Forward

Like the rest of the NHL, the Buffalo Sabres are getting ready for Seattle's expansion draft on July 21st. While the team isn't in deep when it comes to cap space (especially if $10 million man Jack Eichel is being moved), it seems the Sabres would like to maximize the amount of money they have to try and hasten their rebuild this year.

According to Dave Pagnotta, the Sabres have had preliminary discussions with Ron Francis and the Seattle Kraken about a deal involving 33-year old forward Kyle Okposo. The veteran has struggled to live up to the $6 million deal he signed back in 2016, with his production steadily declining every season he's spent in Buffalo. Pagnotta suggests that the Sabres should absolutely take the opportunity to move on from the forward if Seattle were interested in a deal. However, due to Okposo still making $6 million for 2 more years, the Sabres will probably need to add a sweetener to get a deal done.

Okposo was drafted 7th overall in 2006 by the New York Islanders. He had 5 50+ points seasons with the Isles, culminating in a 27 goal, 69 point season in 2013-2014 with the club. Okposo chose to move on to Buffalo when he hit the UFA market but has failed to live up to the expectations placed on him based on his performance in Long Island. His point production has been steadily declining with the Sabres, and he scored just 2 goals and 13 points in 35 games last season. Given the Sabres are heading for a firesale summer, it makes sense that moving on from an expensive veteran like Okposo would help the team reset for a younger generation of players.

Do you think Okposo would make for a good pickup by Seattle?

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