NHL Rumors: Sabres ask for Jack Eichel is astronomical, Eric Staal trade value, and Maple Leafs called on Jonathan Quick
While there’s been rampant speculation all over the internet about what the Sabres would be looking for, Renaud Lavoie of TVA Sports finally provided some insight. On Sportsnet’s Writers Bloc he began by noting that Jack Eichel is very close to ownership and it isn’t a given they will even want to move him. However if they do the price is steep.
NHL Rumors: Sabres want king’s ransom for Jack Eichel
“They are not sure if they are going to trade him or not,” Lavoie began. “If they trade him they want four pieces that are first round picks. Or players that are playing if not in the NHL or elsewhere like the NCAA – that were first round picks and are having success and not struggling.”
Here’s the problem with that, no one is going to give up four first round picks for any player not named Connor McDavid. Remember, it’s a negotiation and the seller starts high so this isn’t a surprise. One source I spoke with stated that no one is going to give up four first rounders, not picks mind you, players for Eichel.
Yesterday we mored that the Rangers indeed had an offer on the table this past offseason for Eichel. Elliotte Friedman classified that offer as “reasonable” and could be the best the Sabres get from any team.
NHL Rumors: Eric Staal a could value deal
Trade speculation on Eric Staal continues. There’s been a lot of back and forth with a number of teams said to be in on him. The best assessment of what it would take to acquire the 36 year-old veteran is a third round pick. Maybe if there is a bidding war they could get a late second. The Hurricanes appear to be the most interested team.
There is a chance, and the Caronia Hurricanes this past week have discussed the possibility of this. I wouldn’t say it’s a top-of-the-agenda item, but what I’m told is the Hurricanes have talked about, “Hey, if Eric Staal is still on the Buffalo roster, closer to April 12, maybe we give the Sabres a call and see what it would take to bring him back here to Carolina.” It’s a storyline that I think a lot of people can get behind. But, in the meantime, there could be a Canadian team or two that makes a push for Eric Staal before that. And that would put Kevyn Adams and the Buffalo Sabres in a position; do you take your best deal a couple weeks out, or do you think it gets better with Carolina closer to April 12th.
Pierre LeBrun
NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs called on Jonathan Quick

The Fourth Period is reporting that the Maple Leafs called the Kings to check in on Jonathan Quick.
According to multiple sources, the Los Angeles Kings have spoken with the Maple Leafs about Quick. At this point, a move does not sound imminent, but the option appears to be available if Toronto decides to pursue it in the next three weeks.
TFP
This is an interesting development. At 35 years-old he may not be the goalie he once was, but he has two Stanley Cup rings and knows how to play under pressure. Keep your eye on this one.