Buffalo Sabres: Determining which UFAs will return next season
By Paul Taylor
Matt Hunwick
Matt Hunwick‘s most productive season was back in 2008-09, when he scored 27 points (six goals and 21 assists) and finished 14th in voting for the Calder Memorial Trophy. He never built on this early promise, but it is a testament to him that he has played 12 years in the NHL.
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In fairness to Hunwick, his long career in North America has been facilitated by being a good skater who is prepared to block shots. In theory he can also log big minutes when called upon, but has spent various points of his time in the NHL battling injuries.
Unfortunately for the Sabres, durability issues have been at the forefront of the 34-year-old’s tenure in Western New York. After being traded from the Pittsburgh Penguins, he only played 14 games during the 2018-19 campaign as a result of dealing with injuries.
However, even this was a positive when compared to the current season, with Hunwick not expected to see any action due to a neck injury. As a result, the Sabres placed him on the long-term injured reserve list.
If and when the seventh round 2004 draft pick is able to play again is unclear at this point. Regardless, it won’t be in Buffalo, with the team removing his $2.25 million cap hit from their payroll once the 2019-20 season is in the books.
Chance of returning next season: 0 percent
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Which of the pending UFAs would you like to see the Buffalo Sabres bring back for the 2020-21 campaign? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.