NHL Rumors: Sabres Shopping Veteran Forward

The Buffalo Sabres are expected to trade Cody Eakin before the deadline passes, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.

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Eakin is in the final year of his contract and carries a $2.225 million cap hit. This is a little bit expensive for his current role, but the Sabres have a good chunk of cap space available, so they would be able to retain some of his salary with ease. That, in turn, should lead to more teams calling.

Eakin is a respectable bottom-six forward who could be beneficial for a playoff team to add. He is known for solid defensive play, so he also can be utilized on the penalty kill if needed. Not only is he capable of playing center, but he also can fill in at left wing, too. Thus, his versatility is also an appealing factor that could make teams interested.

In 43 games this season, Eakin has three goals to go along with seven assists. Although his best offensive days are behind him, he is the kind of veteran that playoff teams like to have for depth.

In 675 career games between the Washington Capitals, Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, Winnipeg Jets, and Sabres, he has 109 goals, 145 assists, and 254 points.