NHL Rumors: Teams Calling Sabres About Defensemen

According to David Pagnotta, teams are calling the Buffalo Sabres about Colin Miller, Will Butcher, Mark Pysyk, and Robert Hagg.

This isn't too surprising to hear, as all four of these players have expiring contracts and are set to become unrestricted free agents. With that, the Sabres of course are near the bottom of the NHL standings, so they are destined to be sellers. With teams always looking for more depth on the blueline, there's a good chance they each will be moved.

Out of the quartet, Miller is the most notable. In 32 games this season, he has two goals, 10 assists, and a minus-2 rating. Overall, he has the ability to produce solid offense from the back end but also has a decent chunk of experience in the playoffs, too. He has been out since mid-January but also returned to practice this week.

Butcher is somebody who could get a decent amount of attention. In 31 games this season, he has one goal and four assists, so he hasn't been dominating. However, he has shown in the past that he also can produce well offensively. Keep in mind, he had 44 points as a rookie with the New Jersey Devils. Teams don't forget that kind of stuff.

Pysyk is a very solid rental candidate, as he has an affordable $900,000 cap hit. With that, he also can play both defense and right wing, so he offers immense versatility. This could make a very good depth player for a contender.

Hagg has been linked to several teams, so it isn't surprising that teams are calling the Sabres about him. His defense-first style of play has allowed him to be a solid bottom-pair option. It will be interesting to see if he's moved by the deadline.