Apr 5, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Mike Green (52) scores a goal in the second period against the Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Nathan Fleming – Staff Writer – Buffalo Sabres Defense Needs Attention
I think Murray will make a couple more trades around draft day so it’s hard to guess what the largest holes will be left to fill with free agency. I have my heart set on a couple trade acquisitions in particular, specifically up front and in net, so I’m going to fantasize that my wishes come true and plan around them.
For me, there isn’t much on the UFA list that blows my jersey up. There are some old vets who could provide a bit more leadership. There are some familiar faces that might prove interesting in a return to Buffalo. But all in all, it’s not a thrilling group.
Puck Prose
If I had to choose anyone, I’d opt for Mike Green – his salary last year was high ($6.25 million) and he’s likely to pull something similar over the next couple of years but he’s probably the best UFA defenseman this year. Assuming Murray doesn’t empty Pegula’s wallet with the next couple of trade scenarios, I’d love to see him in Buffalo. I should add, I hope we unload Meszaros, with whom I was utterly unimpressed this past season. We have a deep investment portfolio of defensive talent but aside from Gorges, I don’t see a lot of leadership on last year’s defensive roster. Green could help direct the back end while Gionta focuses on the front.
Do we need another aging veteran on contract with the Buffalo Sabres? I don’t think the Buffalo Sabres are interested in another veteran on the end of his career, but the Buffalo Sabres blue line does need that steady hand and solid guidance of a veteran that has been there and done that in the playoffs – and Green has a few more years left in him being only 29.
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