Cody Eakin
While it makes sense to shop Eakin to a contender since he’s in the final year of his $4.5 million contract, it also makes sense to consider keeping him around for the future. That’s if he’s okay with taking a pay cut to stay with the Sabres.
Eakin is no better than a fourth-liner and his 11 points in 54 games shows he’s not a contributor. However, there is no one better on the team than setting things up for the scoring lines, given Eakin’s puck control and knack for winning face-offs.
The ultimate role player, the Sabres would do well not to part ways with Eakin until they find another capable of taking his place. Players like Eakin don’t produce eye-popping numbers. They’re also among the least-known players on the ice. But, it’s players like Eakin that help you win games.
Realistically, the Sabres can trade all of the above, especially if they don’t want to face the decision to re-sign Olofsson or Eakin. But each player provides enough value in their own right to continue donning the blue and gold.
(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference)