Failed Trade Reported to Have Happened at the Deadline Between the Sabres and Rangers for Star Player
Photo credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
There was reportedly a deal in place between the Sabres and Rangers that would have seen JJ Peterka head to New York before the trade ultimately failed.
The New York Rangers were reported to be in talks to acquire 23-year-old rising star JJ Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres ahead of the trade deadline.
Peterka, a German-born speedy forward, has been one of the bright spots on an otherwise lacklustre season for the Sabres.
He has posted an impressive 51 points in 61 games, coming close to a point-per-game average, and has already surpassed his previous career high of 50 points, which he posted last season over an 82-game span.
Despite their struggles, Buffalo did not appear to be willing to part with Peterka at the trade deadline, even for a significant return.
The Rangers were said to be offering a first-round pick and a roster player in exchange, but the Sabres refused, as per NHL insider Frank Seravalli.
Buffalo wants to keep its young core intact as it builds towards the future rather than dismantle notable pieces.
The Sabres did make a blockbuster trade on deadline day
It should be noted that the Sabres did trade away Dylan Cozens, but they got an equally good player in return from the Ottawa Senators, Josh Norris.
Now at the basement of the Eastern Conference with a 25-33-6 record (56 points), the Sabres may not even eclipse the 70-point mark for the season.
Having only 18 games remaining and one of the tougher remaining schedules in the league, gaining even 10 more victories will be a steep challenge for Buffalo.
| POLL | ||
MARS 14 | 141 ANSWERS Failed Trade Reported to Have Happened at the Deadline Between the Sabres and Rangers for Star Player Should the Sabres have accepted this trade offer from the Rangers? | ||
| Yes | 63 | 44.7 % |
| No | 78 | 55.3 % |
| List of polls | ||