Buffalo Sabres: Pros and cons of an Alex DeBrincat trade
By Sion Fawkes
The Buffalo Sabres faithful are divided on a potential trade for Blackhawks winger Alex DeBrincat. Today, let’s explore the pros and cons of such a trade.
In a recent presser, Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams implied the franchise would continue to build through the draft, likely meaning they won’t part ways with any first round draft picks to pursue a trade. However, one name that has remained on the radar is Blackhawks winger, Alex DeBrincat.
While a DeBrincat trade for a couple of first rounders would make sense considering he is still one of the league’s youngest forwards, it also makes sense to hold onto those draft picks and continue to build through the system. Personally, I feel Adams should remain undeterred and stick to the plan. He appears to be in the same camp, but it’s always important to stress the infamous smokescreen.
And that’s why we are again discussing a potential Alex DeBrincat trade. Will something like this happen? Probably not. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth talking about.
What would the Buffalo Sabres need to give up for Alex DeBrincat?
We know Bleacher Nation reported the Blackhawks, if they were to trade DeBrincat, that such a trade would come the week of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. Perhaps even the day of, or during the early stages of the draft.
They also revealed the Blackhawks reportedly rejected one offer already. An offer that included at least two first round picks. If that’s the case, the Sabres are one of a few teams that have multiple first round selections the Blackhawks want. Other teams with two or more firsties include the Arizona Coyotes, Winnipeg Jets, Montreal Canadiens, Columbus Blue Jackets, Anaheim Ducks, and Minnesota Wild.
High picks and NHL-caliber prospects
The Blackhawks understandably want at least two first round picks, and high picks at that, as they do not currently have a first round pick. Teams with multiple picks in the first round AND top-ten picks include the Canadiens, Coyotes, Blue Jackets, Sabres, and Ducks.
Bleacher Nation further reported the Blackhawks want multiple prospects with those multiple first round picks. Preferably prospects with potential to move up to the NHL in 2022-23.
Well, the Sabres can supply both. Not saying that, if it is true the Blackhawks turned down a blockbuster trade for DeBrincat that the Sabres were on the other line, but there is a chance they were.
So if the Sabres and Blackhawks were to get a deal done, why would this be a good thing and why would it be a not so good thing? Keep reading for the pros and cons of an Alex DeBrincat trade.