Buffalo Sabres: Is Steven Stamkos Really a Viable Option?
By Paul Taylor
There have been rumblings recently about the Buffalo Sabres being a potential destination for Steven Stamkos if he decides to leave Florida, but how realistic is such a scenario?
The Buffalo Sabres are headed in the right direction – that much we know. However, it must still come as somewhat of a surprise to fans, to hear all the recent talk about Steven Stamkos potentially moving to Western New York.
Kevin Allen of USA TODAY Sports is just the latest hockey analyst to suggest such a scenario. As per his latest column, he views the Sabres as one of the five best fits for Stamkos, if he does indeed leave the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Part of Allen’s rationale comes down to Buffalo being close to the Markam, Ontario native’s home, along with the fact the Sabres have the salary cap space to meet his demands. On the flip side, it is noted the team lacks the wow factor of other potential destinations, while also not yet being a contender.
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When taking all of those aspects into account, how realistic is it to expect Stamkos to end up in Buffalo? Keeping in mind this will be the most important NHL contract he will ever sign, he will likely go somewhere else.
One of the main reasons for this comes down to the position the former first overall draft pick plays. Simply put, the Sabres are already loaded with talent at center, with the likes of Jack Eichel and Ryan O’Reilly.
It has been argued that Stamkos could be moved to the wing. However, why would he make this concession, especially when there is so much demand for his services?
Similarly, why would Eichel or O’Reilly make such a move, just to facilitate their potential new teammate? Both enjoyed excellent first seasons in Buffalo and are only going to get better.
In addition, while the Sabres have the money, do they really want to spend so much on one player, no matter how good the 26-year old is? They will have to pay at least – at least – $10 million per season over seven years, and keep in mind they have other more pressing needs, specifically at the goaltender position.
One other factor to consider is Stamkos’ recent blood clot, although how much it matters, depends on who you speak to. As reported by lightning.nhl.com, he underwent vascular surgery to treat a type of Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (called Effort Thrombosis), which was located near his right collarbone.
The surgery was successful and the two-time Maurice Richard Trophy winner is expected to make a full recovery, with no long-term impact on his playing career. Regardless, if there is any doubt, the Sabres cannot afford to take a gamble, unlike teams such as the Leafs, who are in an enviable position when it comes to disposable finances.
Overall, there is no denying the thought of Stamkos in a Sabres jersey, is an enticing prospect. However, Buffalo sports fans shouldn’t get their hopes up between now and July 1.
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What do you think the chances are of Stamkos ending up in Western New York? Do you even want to see him in a Buffalo Sabres uniform? Let us know in the comments section below.