The great 13

Possibly the best player to don the blue and white, that I myself actually had the pleasure to watch. Growing up watching hockey my dad was a Leafs fan, so that's what I watched when I was younger; Mats Sundin was pretty much the first hockey player I ever really knew about. Sundin wore the legendary maple leaf for 13 seasons and had the honour of being the captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs for 11 seasons. I have the utmost respect for Sundin and is one of my all time favorite Leafs, and Saturday evening the Toronto Maple Leafs honoured their legendary captain by raising his banner to the rafters.
Sundin is arguably the best player to never have won a cup during his career, talk about a consistent scorer, in every season Sundin managed at least 70 points (except the 2008-2009 season with the Canucks when he retired) and finished with 1,349 points in 1,346 games. Who could forget Sundin's 500th goal? Shorthanded, in overtime, to complete the hat trick! But perhaps the most important thing the Leafs and Toronto got from having Sundin, is his class. He is a truly classy guy and an amazing role model. What an honour to see your number up in the rafters joining such names as: Wendel Clarke Borge Salming,  and Doug Gilmour.

Mats Sundin was originally drafted by the Quebec Nordiques in 1989, before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs 5 years later. He spent 13 seasons in Toronto becoming the Leafs all time leading scorer with 420 goals, and 987 points in 981 games. Despite never winning the cup here in Toronto (or in his career) Sundin said there were no regrets. "I wouldn't trade my years with the Leafs for anything," Sundin said. Despite having many amazing moments and memories in his time with the Leafs, his two favorite moments were: The Eastern Conference finals against the Buffalo Sabres in 1999 and the Eastern Conference finals in 2002 against the Carolina Hurricanes, both times the Leafs lost, but they put up an amazing fight. "I miss driving to the ACC with a little knot building up in my stomach before the game," he said. "But the No. 1 thing I miss being retired and not being in Toronto are the people. There are no fans more loyal, passionate and committed than Leafs fans. Thanks for all your support over the years."

Many of Sundin's former teammates were in attendance on Saturday to see the Leafs take on the Habs. Tie Domi, Bryan McCabe, Gary Roberts, Thomas Kaberle, were amongst the 19,000 at the game. Unfortunatly for the Leafs alumni and fans the Leafs didn't win the game, heck they didn't even show up to win and were boo'd off the ice after the 2nd period (down 4-0). The Habs easily beat the Leafs 5-0 and showed everyone that, this Leafs team may just be the same old team we've seen for the last 7 years. Flashes of brilliance, but when it really counts and there is pressure they fold up like a cheap tent!
Before the game, all the current Leafs players wore number 13 jerseys before the game, and Sundin said this current team has the potential to be the real deal. "I like this team," said Sundin. "They remind me of the team we had when we went to the conference final the first time. "We had a young group, good skaters, guys who could play, we could score with all four lines, good goaltending -- and I see all that here."

Some of Sundin's milestones include:

Drafted first overall in the 1989 NHL draft

First European born player to be drafted first overall

an Olympic gold medal in 2006 with team Sweden

scoring a career high 114 points in 1992-1993

making it to the conference finals (twice)

1300th career point february 7th 2008

500th goal October 14th 2006

Leads Leaf franchise with 420 goals and 984 assists

Named Olympic tournament all star team in 2002

NHL all star 9 times

Congratoulations to Mats Sundin, on having his number retired by the Leafs, and joining a list of 16 other elite Maple Leafs to have their number raised. Sundin will go down as one of the best Leafs ever and will forever be in the hearts of Leafs fans, no matter how ugly the last few years was and what not, he's still legendary and dedicated his whole career to the blue and white! We miss you Mats!

The great 13

Possibly the best player to don the blue and white, that I myself actually had the pleasure to watch. Growing up watching hockey my dad was a Leafs fan, so that's what I watched when I was younger; Mats Sundin was pretty much the first hockey player I ever really knew about. Sundin wore the legendary maple leaf for 13 seasons and had the honour of being the captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs for 11 seasons. I have the utmost respect for Sundin and is one of my all time favorite Leafs, and Saturday evening the Toronto Maple Leafs honoured their legendary captain by raising his banner to the rafters.
Sundin is arguably the best player to never have won a cup during his career, talk about a consistent scorer, in every season Sundin managed at least 70 points (except the 2008-2009 season with the Canucks when he retired) and finished with 1,349 points in 1,346 games. Who could forget Sundin's 500th goal? Shorthanded, in overtime, to complete the hat trick! But perhaps the most important thing the Leafs and Toronto got from having Sundin, is his class. He is a truly classy guy and an amazing role model. What an honour to see your number up in the rafters joining such names as: Wendel Clarke Borge Salming,  and Doug Gilmour.

Mats Sundin was originally drafted by the Quebec Nordiques in 1989, before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs 5 years later. He spent 13 seasons in Toronto becoming the Leafs all time leading scorer with 420 goals, and 987 points in 981 games. Despite never winning the cup here in Toronto (or in his career) Sundin said there were no regrets. "I wouldn't trade my years with the Leafs for anything," Sundin said. Despite having many amazing moments and memories in his time with the Leafs, his two favorite moments were: The Eastern Conference finals against the Buffalo Sabres in 1999 and the Eastern Conference finals in 2002 against the Carolina Hurricanes, both times the Leafs lost, but they put up an amazing fight. "I miss driving to the ACC with a little knot building up in my stomach before the game," he said. "But the No. 1 thing I miss being retired and not being in Toronto are the people. There are no fans more loyal, passionate and committed than Leafs fans. Thanks for all your support over the years."

Many of Sundin's former teammates were in attendance on Saturday to see the Leafs take on the Habs. Tie Domi, Bryan McCabe, Gary Roberts, Thomas Kaberle, were amongst the 19,000 at the game. Unfortunatly for the Leafs alumni and fans the Leafs didn't win the game, heck they didn't even show up to win and were boo'd off the ice after the 2nd period (down 4-0). The Habs easily beat the Leafs 5-0 and showed everyone that, this Leafs team may just be the same old team we've seen for the last 7 years. Flashes of brilliance, but when it really counts and there is pressure they fold up like a cheap tent!
Before the game, all the current Leafs players wore number 13 jerseys before the game, and Sundin said this current team has the potential to be the real deal. "I like this team," said Sundin. "They remind me of the team we had when we went to the conference final the first time. "We had a young group, good skaters, guys who could play, we could score with all four lines, good goaltending -- and I see all that here."

Some of Sundin's milestones include:

Drafted first overall in the 1989 NHL draft

First European born player to be drafted first overall

an Olympic gold medal in 2006 with team Sweden

scoring a career high 114 points in 1992-1993

making it to the conference finals (twice)

1300th career point february 7th 2008

500th goal October 14th 2006

Leads Leaf franchise with 420 goals and 984 assists

Named Olympic tournament all star team in 2002

NHL all star 9 times

Congratoulations to Mats Sundin, on having his number retired by the Leafs, and joining a list of 16 other elite Maple Leafs to have their number raised. Sundin will go down as one of the best Leafs ever and will forever be in the hearts of Leafs fans, no matter how ugly the last few years was and what not, he's still legendary and dedicated his whole career to the blue and white! We miss you Mats!

Trading Leafs

It's the time of the season where trade rumours are kicking up, I previously covered the Sabres Trade Rumours so now it's time to cover the trade options of the Toronto Maple Leafs or as GM Brian Burke likes to call them, "the center of the hockey universe". (As a side note: The worst kept secret in hockey since the last winter classic in Philly, was the 2013 Winter Classic. It was rumored and pretty much a done deal that the Toronto Maple Leafs would face the Detroit Red Wings in the 2013 Winter Classic in Detroit. But the event became official today, in a press conference held by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, and the two GM's Brian Burke and Ken Holland; The game will be back to it's original date of January 1st and will be played at the famous Michigan stadium, Jerseys and logo's have yet to be released but will be released in the next few months. So that will be a great event for the NHL, having two original six teams battle it out in the great outdoors where the game began.) But back on topic for todays blog, possible trade options for the Leafs.

It is very likely Burke will NOT make a major trade, at or during the Trade Deadline. The Leafs are right in the middle of a playoff hunt, currently sitting in 7th and are playing darn well, and you know what they say "don't mess with a good thing" and right now the Leafs are a good thing. The lines are gelling, the goalies are both playing well, and the kids on the ice give it their all every night, what more could you ask for? But still, I can't stop the blog here so, we must speculate and see what the crafty mind of Burke could be up to come February 27th I highly doubt we'll see another Dion Phaneuf deal. Just like the Sabres blog, I'll be looking at players Burke will trade and players he'll trade for.

Luke Schenn

Poor Luke Schenn, before the puck even dropped on the 2012 season his name was swirling around with rumors. Will he re-sign, will Burke trade him? Now 55 games into the season, Schenn's name is still the frontrunner for a trade come the deadline. The Leafs have more than their share of defenceman, when all are healthy there are two sitting in the press box, so Burke has to do something about his D. What Burke does need is forwards that consistently put the puck in the net, maybe if Schenn was more of an offensive minded d-man he could stay, but I think Schenn's time in Toronto is all but done. Right now it's looking like Schenn to the Flyers for James Van Reimsdyk, thus allowing Luke to be reunited with younger brother Brayden. Now no guarantees Schenn will be on his way out of town, as he's a solid young defenceman that could turn out to be quite the player once he has more time/experience. Another option for the young defenceman is Edmonton, trade Schenn to the Oilers for Sam Gagner, the way Gagner is scoring right now the Leafs would easily take him from the Oilers.

Mikhail Grabovski

Now Burke may be a little hesitant to trade Grabovski unless he was getting a super duper instant star in return. Grabo, is a pretty decent player and has been meshing well in Toronto and putting up the points. But he is a free agent at the end of the year, and his agent is in town telling Burke to either put up the money or kiss Grabovski goodbye. But Grabo is likely a player that would have to be included if the Leafs wanted to acquire the once rumoured Ryan Getzlaf from the Ducks.

Nikolai Kulemin and Clarke MacArthur

Burke has been shopping these two around for a while, but so far no bites on either. Kulemin had a career season last year playing with Grabovski, but has cooled off this season. Despite being a 3rd liner on the Leafs MacArthur actually has some pretty good trade value. Why? Because on most other teams he'd fit perfectly on the 2nd line, and be counted on to put up 50 points, in Toronto he's not counted on for that production, and is stuck on the 3rd line. The Leafs don't want a 3rd liner making 3.25 million a year.

Both Kulemin and MacArthur have picked up their play slightly as of late, so the asking price just went up a little.

Nazem Kadri

Although my opinion is not popular amongst Leaf fans, Kadri's time in Toronto is done! Burke has to be fed up with the kid, the Leafs are in dire need of a top notch scorer, something Kadri was supposed to be when he was drafted 7th in the 2009 draft. No that's not a typo 2009 was the year Kadri was drafted by Burke and he has failed to fully crack the Leafs roster, not to mention Burke didn't even want the kid, he got fooled into taking him after playing head games with some other GM's. Everyone was excited about how Kadri would make the Leafs right out of training camp finally, but just like in years past Kadri was one of the last cuts. In all fairness to Kadri it was mainly because he got hurt, but he still failed to make the opening day roster. I don't think Kadri is a complete waste, as he'd likely benefit from a change in scenery, new management and a place with a lot less media coverage. Now Kadri, himself wouldn't bring much back to the Leafs, so he'd likely be a throw in like Lupul was in the Jake Gardiner deal. But if Burke was able to get his hand on Bobby Ryan then trading Kadri would be a no brainer. Not to mention Burke has had his way with the Ducks and trades.

Matthew Lombardi
The Leafs got Lombardi for pretty much nothing, not to mention getting Franson in the deal. But Lombardi will never be much more than a 3rd liner for the Leafs. Much like with MacArthur, Lombardi is making way too much to be a 3rd liner, so it's time for Burke to dump his contract on another team. He's not really that good of a bottom six forward either, or at least not in Toronto, I think Burke could flip him for a 2nd rounder or another bottom 6 tough forward.

Now for the fun part seeing who Toronto could get in return :)

Bobby Ryan
I honestly don't think Burke will be able to pull off this deal, the Leafs don't have what the Ducks want in exchange for Ryan. Plus the Ducks are finally starting to play well, so trade talks have slowed down. All the talks about the Ducks being "blown up" have also died down. Meaning if the Leafs want Ryan they're going to have to pay big! It will likely take Grabovski, Schenn, Kadri and a pick to pry Ryan away from the Ducks, that's a lot of fire power right there, and Burke wouldn't be willing to part with all those assests if he wasn't getting a decent return. Although it would be fantastic to get Ryan in a Leafs Jersey I simply don't think it will happen, the asking price is too much. After the last trade with the Leafs, the Ducks may be a little hesitant to trade with the Buds again. (Fun fact, Burke is the GM who drafted Bobby Ryan, when he was the Ducks GM.)

James Van Reimsdyk

Now this trade has been rumored to be in the works for quite some time, but talks between the Leafs and Flyers have all but stopped. The Flyers would gladly take Luke Schenn to try to fill the void of veteran defenceman Chris Pronger. The Leafs would also love to have Van Reimsdyke, a young kid who can score, just what Burke wants plus he's locked up for another 6 seasons at just over 4 million. One slight issue, Van Reimsdyke has a history of concussions, and is currently recovering from one. It would likely take Schenn and a pick to get Van Reimsdyke out of Philly. To be honest I don't know if it's worth it, Reimsdyke has struggled this season, when he wasn't injured so he may not be an instant success in Toronto. Burke wants players that will help push the Leafs into the playoffs, not players who slack off.

Rick Nash

Another player who is fairly unhappy in Columbus. He's a long term veteran player who has never and will likely never have a chance to hoist the cup with the Blue Jackets. Many are saying Nash is fed up and wants out, and the Blue Jackets owe it to him to send him to a contending team.

Rick Nash + Huselius for Schenn + Kadri + Grabovski + a pick Now just like the trade for Bobby Ryan this is likely more than Burke would be willing to part with. Wouldn't take a lot of convincing to get Rick Nash to say yes to a trade out of Columbus.

Jeff Carter
Imagine if Burke was able to pull the trigger and get that number one center he's after. Jeff Carter would fit the bill perfectly, as he's more than ready to get out of Columbus. But let's have a reality check, there is almost no way that the Leafs can get their hands on Carter, there are way to many road blocks. First of all Carters contract is humungous, in order for Burke to be able to eat his contract is if he moves some other players first. Getting rid of Tim Connolly and his contract would help in getting Carter, but does Columbus want Connolly? The Leafs would have to give up way to much in return for Carter; a first round draft pick and a top six forward at least. (Grabovski, Bozak, Connolly)
Getting Carter to Toronto is nothing more than wishful thinking; too much money, too much to give up, and not the type of player Burke wants wearing the blue and white. He's a sulky, cry-baby type of player who was not happy leaving the Flyers.

A few other names include; Tuomo Ruutu, Sam Gagner, Ryan Malone, Ryan Getzlaf
But these are background deals that wouldn't really make a huge skake-up. Getzlaf would be too much money. Out of the list the 4, I could see Ruutu or Gagner suiting up in a Leafs jersey, not super expensive and both could benefit from a change of scenery.

But here's the kicker the Leafs DON'T need to make a deal, this team is just fine the way it is. As long as Reimer and Gustavsson keep playing well, this team should have no problem making it to the playoffs. The Leafs wouldn't enjoy a long stay but could at least drop in and say hello. The majority of players on the Leafs roster don't have playoff experience, so we don't know how they would do. There are always names that come out of nowhere to produce in the playoffs; we don't want to trade away a hidden gem. Above all else, this year's trade deadline is just a step toward building a true Stanley Cup contender.

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Trading Leafs

It's the time of the season where trade rumours are kicking up, I previously covered the Sabres Trade Rumours so now it's time to cover the trade options of the Toronto Maple Leafs or as GM Brian Burke likes to call them, "the center of the hockey universe". (As a side note: The worst kept secret in hockey since the last winter classic in Philly, was the 2013 Winter Classic. It was rumored and pretty much a done deal that the Toronto Maple Leafs would face the Detroit Red Wings in the 2013 Winter Classic in Detroit. But the event became official today, in a press conference held by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, and the two GM's Brian Burke and Ken Holland; The game will be back to it's original date of January 1st and will be played at the famous Michigan stadium, Jerseys and logo's have yet to be released but will be released in the next few months. So that will be a great event for the NHL, having two original six teams battle it out in the great outdoors where the game began.) But back on topic for todays blog, possible trade options for the Leafs.

It is very likely Burke will NOT make a major trade, at or during the Trade Deadline. The Leafs are right in the middle of a playoff hunt, currently sitting in 7th and are playing darn well, and you know what they say "don't mess with a good thing" and right now the Leafs are a good thing. The lines are gelling, the goalies are both playing well, and the kids on the ice give it their all every night, what more could you ask for? But still, I can't stop the blog here so, we must speculate and see what the crafty mind of Burke could be up to come February 27th I highly doubt we'll see another Dion Phaneuf deal. Just like the Sabres blog, I'll be looking at players Burke will trade and players he'll trade for.

Luke Schenn

Poor Luke Schenn, before the puck even dropped on the 2012 season his name was swirling around with rumors. Will he re-sign, will Burke trade him? Now 55 games into the season, Schenn's name is still the frontrunner for a trade come the deadline. The Leafs have more than their share of defenceman, when all are healthy there are two sitting in the press box, so Burke has to do something about his D. What Burke does need is forwards that consistently put the puck in the net, maybe if Schenn was more of an offensive minded d-man he could stay, but I think Schenn's time in Toronto is all but done. Right now it's looking like Schenn to the Flyers for James Van Reimsdyk, thus allowing Luke to be reunited with younger brother Brayden. Now no guarantees Schenn will be on his way out of town, as he's a solid young defenceman that could turn out to be quite the player once he has more time/experience. Another option for the young defenceman is Edmonton, trade Schenn to the Oilers for Sam Gagner, the way Gagner is scoring right now the Leafs would easily take him from the Oilers.

Mikhail Grabovski

Now Burke may be a little hesitant to trade Grabovski unless he was getting a super duper instant star in return. Grabo, is a pretty decent player and has been meshing well in Toronto and putting up the points. But he is a free agent at the end of the year, and his agent is in town telling Burke to either put up the money or kiss Grabovski goodbye. But Grabo is likely a player that would have to be included if the Leafs wanted to acquire the once rumoured Ryan Getzlaf from the Ducks.

Nikolai Kulemin and Clarke MacArthur

Burke has been shopping these two around for a while, but so far no bites on either. Kulemin had a career season last year playing with Grabovski, but has cooled off this season. Despite being a 3rd liner on the Leafs MacArthur actually has some pretty good trade value. Why? Because on most other teams he'd fit perfectly on the 2nd line, and be counted on to put up 50 points, in Toronto he's not counted on for that production, and is stuck on the 3rd line. The Leafs don't want a 3rd liner making 3.25 million a year.

Both Kulemin and MacArthur have picked up their play slightly as of late, so the asking price just went up a little.

Nazem Kadri

Although my opinion is not popular amongst Leaf fans, Kadri's time in Toronto is done! Burke has to be fed up with the kid, the Leafs are in dire need of a top notch scorer, something Kadri was supposed to be when he was drafted 7th in the 2009 draft. No that's not a typo 2009 was the year Kadri was drafted by Burke and he has failed to fully crack the Leafs roster, not to mention Burke didn't even want the kid, he got fooled into taking him after playing head games with some other GM's. Everyone was excited about how Kadri would make the Leafs right out of training camp finally, but just like in years past Kadri was one of the last cuts. In all fairness to Kadri it was mainly because he got hurt, but he still failed to make the opening day roster. I don't think Kadri is a complete waste, as he'd likely benefit from a change in scenery, new management and a place with a lot less media coverage. Now Kadri, himself wouldn't bring much back to the Leafs, so he'd likely be a throw in like Lupul was in the Jake Gardiner deal. But if Burke was able to get his hand on Bobby Ryan then trading Kadri would be a no brainer. Not to mention Burke has had his way with the Ducks and trades.

Matthew Lombardi
The Leafs got Lombardi for pretty much nothing, not to mention getting Franson in the deal. But Lombardi will never be much more than a 3rd liner for the Leafs. Much like with MacArthur, Lombardi is making way too much to be a 3rd liner, so it's time for Burke to dump his contract on another team. He's not really that good of a bottom six forward either, or at least not in Toronto, I think Burke could flip him for a 2nd rounder or another bottom 6 tough forward.

Now for the fun part seeing who Toronto could get in return :)

Bobby Ryan
I honestly don't think Burke will be able to pull off this deal, the Leafs don't have what the Ducks want in exchange for Ryan. Plus the Ducks are finally starting to play well, so trade talks have slowed down. All the talks about the Ducks being "blown up" have also died down. Meaning if the Leafs want Ryan they're going to have to pay big! It will likely take Grabovski, Schenn, Kadri and a pick to pry Ryan away from the Ducks, that's a lot of fire power right there, and Burke wouldn't be willing to part with all those assests if he wasn't getting a decent return. Although it would be fantastic to get Ryan in a Leafs Jersey I simply don't think it will happen, the asking price is too much. After the last trade with the Leafs, the Ducks may be a little hesitant to trade with the Buds again. (Fun fact, Burke is the GM who drafted Bobby Ryan, when he was the Ducks GM.)

James Van Reimsdyk

Now this trade has been rumored to be in the works for quite some time, but talks between the Leafs and Flyers have all but stopped. The Flyers would gladly take Luke Schenn to try to fill the void of veteran defenceman Chris Pronger. The Leafs would also love to have Van Reimsdyke, a young kid who can score, just what Burke wants plus he's locked up for another 6 seasons at just over 4 million. One slight issue, Van Reimsdyke has a history of concussions, and is currently recovering from one. It would likely take Schenn and a pick to get Van Reimsdyke out of Philly. To be honest I don't know if it's worth it, Reimsdyke has struggled this season, when he wasn't injured so he may not be an instant success in Toronto. Burke wants players that will help push the Leafs into the playoffs, not players who slack off.

Rick Nash

Another player who is fairly unhappy in Columbus. He's a long term veteran player who has never and will likely never have a chance to hoist the cup with the Blue Jackets. Many are saying Nash is fed up and wants out, and the Blue Jackets owe it to him to send him to a contending team.

Rick Nash + Huselius for Schenn + Kadri + Grabovski + a pick Now just like the trade for Bobby Ryan this is likely more than Burke would be willing to part with. Wouldn't take a lot of convincing to get Rick Nash to say yes to a trade out of Columbus.

Jeff Carter
Imagine if Burke was able to pull the trigger and get that number one center he's after. Jeff Carter would fit the bill perfectly, as he's more than ready to get out of Columbus. But let's have a reality check, there is almost no way that the Leafs can get their hands on Carter, there are way to many road blocks. First of all Carters contract is humungous, in order for Burke to be able to eat his contract is if he moves some other players first. Getting rid of Tim Connolly and his contract would help in getting Carter, but does Columbus want Connolly? The Leafs would have to give up way to much in return for Carter; a first round draft pick and a top six forward at least. (Grabovski, Bozak, Connolly)
Getting Carter to Toronto is nothing more than wishful thinking; too much money, too much to give up, and not the type of player Burke wants wearing the blue and white. He's a sulky, cry-baby type of player who was not happy leaving the Flyers.

A few other names include; Tuomo Ruutu, Sam Gagner, Ryan Malone, Ryan Getzlaf
But these are background deals that wouldn't really make a huge skake-up. Getzlaf would be too much money. Out of the list the 4, I could see Ruutu or Gagner suiting up in a Leafs jersey, not super expensive and both could benefit from a change of scenery.

But here's the kicker the Leafs DON'T need to make a deal, this team is just fine the way it is. As long as Reimer and Gustavsson keep playing well, this team should have no problem making it to the playoffs. The Leafs wouldn't enjoy a long stay but could at least drop in and say hello. The majority of players on the Leafs roster don't have playoff experience, so we don't know how they would do. There are always names that come out of nowhere to produce in the playoffs; we don't want to trade away a hidden gem. Above all else, this year's trade deadline is just a step toward building a true Stanley Cup contender.

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Sabres Trade options

Well it's no secret that the Sabres have had a less than stellar first half of the season, and need nothing short of a miracle to squeak into the playoffs. Whether it be Miller not playing like Miller, almost every player taking their turn on the injury go round, or expectations set to high, the Sabres have not played the type of hockey people were expecting before the season started, and find themselves 14th in the Eastern Conference and 9 points out of 8th. Despite goaltender Ryan Miller stating "there is no trade that can change this team", there needs to be a major shakeup in Buffalo and that would all likely be a trade. So lets look at players who could be moved and players the Sabres are going after.

Derek Roy

Roy only has 25 points in 45 games, not what the Sabres need from the center who has put up 3 straight seasons of 69 points. But moving Roy for some draft picks or a prospect isn't going to do the Sabres any good, the Sabres need to be looking for a decent impact player that can help down the stretch. Trading the most talented center on the team for draft picks or "any cost" would only hurt the Sabres chances as we'd be stuck with young Luke Adam and Jochen Hect as our top 6 centers, I for one am not comfortable with them leading the team down the middle. Roy's contract is easily manageable for team, at $4 million next season Roy could be a player that is sought after at the deadline; he is a veteran presence, that can put up points and perhaps add leadership perhaps a change in scenery is all Roy needs to regain his scoring touch. Baring a complete and utter miracle the Sabres will likely miss the postseason for the first time in 2 years, so any players that aren't in the blue prints for the future should be shipped out of town. When Roy is playing well he is one of the best small centers on the market.

Jochen Hect and Brad Boyes
These two would be good moves to free up some much needed cap space for the Sabres. They aren't necessarily crucial to the success of the Sabres, and could easily net us some draft picks or a prospect.
Not to mention they are both UFA at the end of the year.

Drew Stafford
Last season Stafford had a career year despite missing large chunks of time due to injury, missing 20 games but still recording 57 points so expectations were high, for Stafford to come out and produce this season. It is highly unlikely Stafford will be a consistent 30 goal scorer, but when he's on his game he can produce and there are teams out there that would be more than willing to acquire a 3rd liner who can put the puck in the net. With Staffords $4 million dollar cap hit it will be tough to move him, but it is a move the Sabres must make, to have future success.

Ryan Miller

Miller I can guarantee you will not be dealt before the deadline. Like it or not Ryan Miller will be a Buffalo Sabre at the end of the 2012 season. Now not everyone agrees on Miller's skill and some are stating he's over-rated, but like it or not he is one of the most highly-regarded goaltenders around. Teams that need goaltending would be willing to ship half their team over to get Miller. The whole team is playing poorly and Miller is just a product of the poor play, if the teams poor play is a sign of things to come, we better pray that a major deal will be made, but Miller is the franchise of the Sabres, the backbone of the team, without Miller the Sabres are back a good 5 years. But the main reason Miller wouldn't be dealt midseason is his cap hit, $6.250 million a year for another 3 years, you don't see those kind of contracts moved midseason. If Miller was to be shipped out of town it would be in the offseason, and sadly enough it would not make the Sabres a better team.

Thomas Vanek
I know I know this is crazy to even think about, but the Sabres have already been shopping Derek Roy and Drew Stafford around, and so far have received little to no interest. Yes talks always heat up closer to the deadline, but if the Sabres can't find any takers for Roy and Stafford then they will have to think about letting Vanek or Pominville go. Pominville is likely not going anywhere as he was just named captain, but the Sabres need to make a big trade splash and Vanek is the player that will allow us to perhaps get the best return. Trading a player with the skill and ability of Vanek, would mean getting a player with his skill and ability in return, and hopefully for less cash.
I'd prefer to not see Vanek shipped out of town, but I'm all for making the Sabres a cup contending team.

Travis Moen
A big tall tough 3rd line winger, who's salary is half of Jochen Hect's. The Canadians are desperate to get rid of players to free up cap space to resign their star players. Moen is a player the Habs are more than willing to get rid of, and would want a couple draft picks in return. If Moen is still around come deadline time, it would be in the sabres best interest to acquire him.

Tuomo Ruutu
Despite Ruutu's ability to score, that isn't the real reason teams (like the Sabres) are after him. At 6 feet 205 pounds, is more than capable of crashing the net, and hitting bodies something that has been lacking from the Sabres lineup. He'd fit in perfectly on the second line, and costs less than Brad Boyes. Although his scoring touch isn't the most important aspect, Ruutu has shown no problem being able to put the puck in the net; in the last 2 years Ruutu has scored 104 points in 136 games.

Brandon Prust
Let's be real here Sabres fans, we DON'T have a legitiment enforcer type of player, you all saw what happened with Miller, heck the whole league saw it and isn't about to let us forget. We Need someone who isn't afraid to hit and fight; Gaustad and Kaleta do a decent job at patrolling the ice, but no where near the job Prust would do. Although he wouldn't add much of a scoring touch he'd be cheaper and better at what he's payed to do that Kaleta and Gaustad. Not to mention Prust is a great guy in the dressing room, and issue I believe the Sabres soon need to address, as the whole team seemed to be divided.

Bobby Ryan
Now of course we're after the Ducks Bobby Ryan, what team isn't? but there's the problem a lot of teams want Bobby Ryan wearing their sweater for the end of the season. I don't think we have the players it would take to land Ryan. We would likely need to trade Ryan Miller, but the Ducks already have their long term goalie in Hiller. In order to get Ryan and stay under the cap we would have to make several moves and then hope that the Ducks still have him when the Sabres are done freeing up cap space. So it's highly unlikely we'll see Bobby Ryan in a Sabres uniform anytime soon. But anything can happen.

Dustin Penner
Penner is a solid forward who is just having a rough season with the Kings. He's be a decent addition to kick start the Sabres offence, plus he wouldn't cost a whole lot, so we would have some extra cash flow. Penner a one time 60 point player, only has 12 points in 36 games; sound like a guy who could benefit from a change in scenery.

Ales Hemsky
It's no secret the Sabres are having trouble scoring goals, so the smartest move would be to acquire a decent forward and sign him for maybe 2 years and see how it works. Hemsky would be a good player for the Sabres to consider going after. Hemsky's contract is up at the end of the season and the Oilers are likely to miss the playoffs again, meaning they are willing to move "older" guys, plus they wont want Hemsky to walk away for nothing. Hemsky is having a rough season in Edmonton trying to recover from his second shoulder surgery, I think Hemsky would benefit from a change of scenery plus it's worth the risk as we wont have to sign him if he doesn't work out.

I think the best bet for the Sabres is to move Derek Roy, Brad Boyes and or Drew Stafford, getting rid of these players should open up just enough cap space to bring in a Moen or Hemsky, to try to make a push to the playoffs. unfortunately baring an utter miracle playoffs are almost out of reach.

Sabres Trade options

Well it's no secret that the Sabres have had a less than stellar first half of the season, and need nothing short of a miracle to squeak into the playoffs. Whether it be Miller not playing like Miller, almost every player taking their turn on the injury go round, or expectations set to high, the Sabres have not played the type of hockey people were expecting before the season started, and find themselves 14th in the Eastern Conference and 9 points out of 8th. Despite goaltender Ryan Miller stating "there is no trade that can change this team", there needs to be a major shakeup in Buffalo and that would all likely be a trade. So lets look at players who could be moved and players the Sabres are going after.

Derek Roy

Roy only has 25 points in 45 games, not what the Sabres need from the center who has put up 3 straight seasons of 69 points. But moving Roy for some draft picks or a prospect isn't going to do the Sabres any good, the Sabres need to be looking for a decent impact player that can help down the stretch. Trading the most talented center on the team for draft picks or "any cost" would only hurt the Sabres chances as we'd be stuck with young Luke Adam and Jochen Hect as our top 6 centers, I for one am not comfortable with them leading the team down the middle. Roy's contract is easily manageable for team, at $4 million next season Roy could be a player that is sought after at the deadline; he is a veteran presence, that can put up points and perhaps add leadership perhaps a change in scenery is all Roy needs to regain his scoring touch. Baring a complete and utter miracle the Sabres will likely miss the postseason for the first time in 2 years, so any players that aren't in the blue prints for the future should be shipped out of town. When Roy is playing well he is one of the best small centers on the market.

Jochen Hect and Brad Boyes
These two would be good moves to free up some much needed cap space for the Sabres. They aren't necessarily crucial to the success of the Sabres, and could easily net us some draft picks or a prospect.
Not to mention they are both UFA at the end of the year.

Drew Stafford
Last season Stafford had a career year despite missing large chunks of time due to injury, missing 20 games but still recording 57 points so expectations were high, for Stafford to come out and produce this season. It is highly unlikely Stafford will be a consistent 30 goal scorer, but when he's on his game he can produce and there are teams out there that would be more than willing to acquire a 3rd liner who can put the puck in the net. With Staffords $4 million dollar cap hit it will be tough to move him, but it is a move the Sabres must make, to have future success.

Ryan Miller

Miller I can guarantee you will not be dealt before the deadline. Like it or not Ryan Miller will be a Buffalo Sabre at the end of the 2012 season. Now not everyone agrees on Miller's skill and some are stating he's over-rated, but like it or not he is one of the most highly-regarded goaltenders around. Teams that need goaltending would be willing to ship half their team over to get Miller. The whole team is playing poorly and Miller is just a product of the poor play, if the teams poor play is a sign of things to come, we better pray that a major deal will be made, but Miller is the franchise of the Sabres, the backbone of the team, without Miller the Sabres are back a good 5 years. But the main reason Miller wouldn't be dealt midseason is his cap hit, $6.250 million a year for another 3 years, you don't see those kind of contracts moved midseason. If Miller was to be shipped out of town it would be in the offseason, and sadly enough it would not make the Sabres a better team.

Thomas Vanek
I know I know this is crazy to even think about, but the Sabres have already been shopping Derek Roy and Drew Stafford around, and so far have received little to no interest. Yes talks always heat up closer to the deadline, but if the Sabres can't find any takers for Roy and Stafford then they will have to think about letting Vanek or Pominville go. Pominville is likely not going anywhere as he was just named captain, but the Sabres need to make a big trade splash and Vanek is the player that will allow us to perhaps get the best return. Trading a player with the skill and ability of Vanek, would mean getting a player with his skill and ability in return, and hopefully for less cash.
I'd prefer to not see Vanek shipped out of town, but I'm all for making the Sabres a cup contending team.

Travis Moen
A big tall tough 3rd line winger, who's salary is half of Jochen Hect's. The Canadians are desperate to get rid of players to free up cap space to resign their star players. Moen is a player the Habs are more than willing to get rid of, and would want a couple draft picks in return. If Moen is still around come deadline time, it would be in the sabres best interest to acquire him.

Tuomo Ruutu
Despite Ruutu's ability to score, that isn't the real reason teams (like the Sabres) are after him. At 6 feet 205 pounds, is more than capable of crashing the net, and hitting bodies something that has been lacking from the Sabres lineup. He'd fit in perfectly on the second line, and costs less than Brad Boyes. Although his scoring touch isn't the most important aspect, Ruutu has shown no problem being able to put the puck in the net; in the last 2 years Ruutu has scored 104 points in 136 games.

Brandon Prust
Let's be real here Sabres fans, we DON'T have a legitiment enforcer type of player, you all saw what happened with Miller, heck the whole league saw it and isn't about to let us forget. We Need someone who isn't afraid to hit and fight; Gaustad and Kaleta do a decent job at patrolling the ice, but no where near the job Prust would do. Although he wouldn't add much of a scoring touch he'd be cheaper and better at what he's payed to do that Kaleta and Gaustad. Not to mention Prust is a great guy in the dressing room, and issue I believe the Sabres soon need to address, as the whole team seemed to be divided.

Bobby Ryan
Now of course we're after the Ducks Bobby Ryan, what team isn't? but there's the problem a lot of teams want Bobby Ryan wearing their sweater for the end of the season. I don't think we have the players it would take to land Ryan. We would likely need to trade Ryan Miller, but the Ducks already have their long term goalie in Hiller. In order to get Ryan and stay under the cap we would have to make several moves and then hope that the Ducks still have him when the Sabres are done freeing up cap space. So it's highly unlikely we'll see Bobby Ryan in a Sabres uniform anytime soon. But anything can happen.

Dustin Penner
Penner is a solid forward who is just having a rough season with the Kings. He's be a decent addition to kick start the Sabres offence, plus he wouldn't cost a whole lot, so we would have some extra cash flow. Penner a one time 60 point player, only has 12 points in 36 games; sound like a guy who could benefit from a change in scenery.

Ales Hemsky
It's no secret the Sabres are having trouble scoring goals, so the smartest move would be to acquire a decent forward and sign him for maybe 2 years and see how it works. Hemsky would be a good player for the Sabres to consider going after. Hemsky's contract is up at the end of the season and the Oilers are likely to miss the playoffs again, meaning they are willing to move "older" guys, plus they wont want Hemsky to walk away for nothing. Hemsky is having a rough season in Edmonton trying to recover from his second shoulder surgery, I think Hemsky would benefit from a change of scenery plus it's worth the risk as we wont have to sign him if he doesn't work out.

I think the best bet for the Sabres is to move Derek Roy, Brad Boyes and or Drew Stafford, getting rid of these players should open up just enough cap space to bring in a Moen or Hemsky, to try to make a push to the playoffs. unfortunately baring an utter miracle playoffs are almost out of reach.