The Top Five Changes I Want to See the Buffalo Sabres Make
Convince Matt Moulson to Stay in Buffalo
Nov 2, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Sabres left wing
Matt Moulson(26) tries to knock down the puck during the second period against the Anaheim Ducks at First Niagara Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
I would consider this an example of a change that the Sabres need to make, because I am willing to bet two things:
1. When the Sabres acquired Moulson in the trade that sent Thomas Vanek to the New York Islanders, the organization always planned on moving him before the trade deadline in order to acquire even more draft picks; and
2. Matt Moulson has no intentions of remaining with this team once the season is over.
Even if I’m wrong about #1 (highly doubtful), Ron Rolston’s benching of Moulson earlier this season absolutely convinced Moulson that the Sabres are his equivalent of hockey hell. The good news: Ted Nolan is no Ron Rolston. The bad news: Moulson has not exactly flourished under Nolan’s tutelage so far.
Now, I know what a lot of you are saying: “If I was Moulson, I wouldn’t want to stick around once this season ends.” Well no crap. That’s my point! Any sane person with an expiring contract would want to get as far away from Buffalo right now as they can. This is what the Sabres need to try and change, and they have from now until the offseason to convince Moulson he is their starting left winger for the next 4-5 years. Cody Hodgson may not be first-line material anywhere else in the NHL, but he is the best center this organization currently has, and needs to have quality wingers at his disposal. Buffalo needs to let these two develop chemistry, and then do whatever it takes to convince Moulson to stay. Lifetime supply of beer? Let him drive the Zamboni during intermissions? WHATEVER. Just get it done.