While 16 NHL teams are getting ready for the playoffs, the Buffalo Sabres are looking ahead to next year after missing the post-season for the fifth straight year. Still, General Manager Tim Murray carried an optimistic tone into Monday's season-ending press conference. At the top of the list of positives for Murray was the play of rookie Jack Eichel.
"He's a dynamic young center who could possibly be the best player, or in the conversation for, best player in this league in a couple of years," Murray said. "So if I'm a winger, if I'm looking around the league, that's one guy I would definitely want to play with. If I'm a goal scorer, I would love for Buffalo to give me a chance."
Murray said forward Cody McCormick has decided against resuming his NHL career after a blood clot was found in his left leg. Murray said McCormick does not want to jeopardize his health.
Another item on the general manager's to-do list will be resolving the status of young defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen, who is a restricted free agent.
Murray indicated that the team has enough room under the salary cap to be an active player in the free agent market. He believes his young team has more room for improvement.
The Sabres finished with 81 points this season, after finishing last in the NHL last season with just 54 points.
