The Sergei Bobrovsky sweepstakes are coming to an end soon, as the Florida Panthers have been involved in trade talks with a number of teams over the last few days.
The Panthers are selling and are open to moving their veteran goaltender, after contract extension talks haven’t gone as planned. Bobrovsky’s in the final season of his current deal, earning $10 million AAV, and owns a 16-team no-trade list.
With his Stanley Cup pedigree and decorated resume, Bobrovsky is easily the best goaltender on the trade market, followed by St. Louis Blues’ Jordan Binnington. The Panthers have been active in trade talks with four teams the past week, including the Edmonton Oilers, Montreal Canadiens, Vegas Golden Knights and Buffalo Sabres.
For now, it appears the Sabres could be the frontrunner, with the Golden Knights very close behind. Both teams are expected to add some goaltending depth ahead of Friday afternoon’s deadline. The Sabres have an interesting inside track based on management’s time with Bobrovsky with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Elliotte Friedman: Re Sergei Bobrovsky rumours: I always look for connections, the Buffalo guys, they know Bobrovsky really well – NHL Now (3/4)
The Sabres have $7.6 million in cap space, so the finances will need to be figured out, but this deal is certainly not out of the realm of possibilities. The Sabres are waiting on Colton Parayko to accept a trade from St. Louis, and once that goes through, likely by Thursday afternoon, they’ll turn their attention to upgrading goaltending.
Vegas, on the other hand, has not had strong goaltending all season long and somehow is where they are in the standings. Adin Hill is available, however, don’t expect Florida to want that contract in return. Instead, likely a couple of prospects, draft pick, and one short-term NHL contract.
Keep an eye on the Panthers, they are trading Goalie Bob before Friday afternoon, with the Sabres and Golden Knights leading the charge.
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