Buffalo Sabres Round Table: The Free Agency Discussion

Apr 9, 2015; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers right winger Teddy Purcell (16 ) battles for the puck with San Jose Sharks goalie Antti Niemi (31) and Sharks left winger Patrick Marleau (12) during the first period at Rexall Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-USA TODAY Sports

Melissa Kania, Editor – Buffalo Sabres Free Agent Goalie Options

One of the key pieces that’s missing in the Buffalo Sabres organization right now is a starting goaltender. Sure, the team has Chad Johnson under contract, but there’s little to no doubt that he’s not going to be the starter when October rolls around. If the Sabres don’t acquire one via trade (cough, Cam Talbot?), they’ll have to look for free agency.

Why not consider Antti Niemi?

The 31-year-old has spent the last five seasons with the San Jose Sharks, but also has a Stanley Cup win under his belt. He helped lead the Chicago Blackhawks to the Cup in 2010. Niemi is used to playing big minutes, having appeared in 60+ games in each of the last two seasons – and playing in at least 60 games in four of the last five years.

This past season, Niemi had a 2.59 GAA and .914 save percentage in 61 games played. His record was 31-23-7. The only downfall is that he comes at a little bit of a steep price, having been paid $4 million this past season — but it’s not like the Buffalo Sabres don’t have the cap space to work with, and if they’re looking for big-name players, they’re going to have to pay up. Niemi’s future in San Jose isn’t certain, and last anyone heard, there were no serious discussions between Niemi’s agent and the Sharks organization.

This is all, of course, assuming that the Buffalo Sabres don’t try to bring back Anders Lindback, who is also going to be an unrestricted free agents this summer. Personally, I wouldn’t mind signing Lindback and letting him have a go as full-time starter for the season, but then again, I’m not Tim Murray.

Are the Buffalo Sabres going to be content with their goaltending situation?  Last season the Calgary Flames were the underdog favorites going into the playoffs. Could the Buffalo Sabres be the dark horse team that everyone is cheering for next year if GMTM makes those strong moves this off season?

Next: Nathan Fleming, Staff Writer - SabreNoise