The Sabres have not made as many moves to bolster their goal scoring depth this offseason. This is also after they surprised many by trading JJ Peterka. Now they may be looking to make a move that could provide that kind of depth.
Andre Lee did sign a two-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Kings in March. However, the extension is cap friendly and he has provided for a Kings team who has made the postseason the last few seasons.
Lee played in 19 games a season ago and added a goal and two assists in his first NHL action. It was enough for the Kings to re-sign him to an extension. He spent time in the AHL with Ontario Reign and he provided six goals and 14 assists.
His strength at generating chances and having as many assists is something that the Sabres have been missing in terms of depth or anything outside of their primary goal scorers in Tage Thompson or Alex Tuch.
They need depth and have been lacking the last few years. A player like Lee could be a valuable option if they are looking for that kind of depth.
Also, if they are looking for trade partners for possibly Thompson or Bowen Byram once the season starts, the Kings may be looking to deal. They have lost to the Edmonton Oilers the last four years, and it will probably wish to do anything to get pass the first round.
Head coach for the Kings, Jim Hiller, commented on Lee after he made his NHL debut a season ago. "He’s just getting started and he’s doing the things he needs to do. He’s a responsible defensive player, finishes checks, gets in on the forecheck, all of the good stuff. He’s an exciting player with a bright future."
He is slated to make $775,000 for the Kings next season and that is only .81% against the Kings salary cap. The Sabres have space but anyone who is cap friendly could help them in the long run.
It is worth noting that Lee made his NHL debut at Keybank Arena against the Sabres last season. He was excited for the chance, and if the Sabres make a move, it could be a full circle for the Swedish hockey player.
Buffalo is a hockey town and deserves better than the product that been on the ice the last decade. Finding the right pieces is a part of putting the product that is better. A player like Lee should be looked at as a part of that product.
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