Quoting: Lsendel3
Maybe. Dropping 13M from Eric Johnson, Olofsson, Girgs, and Okposo in a singular year takes up both their raises. Replacing with ELC/cheap vets can be done for an additional 2M. Would have to have Mitts take a bridge that’s would take him right to free agency. Could be done, and EP40 over Cozens could push the Sabres at least into the playoffs. Also maybe not, with their luck he pulls his groin year one and isn’t the same ever again.
Yeah, just not sure they have the right mix of players. They "on paper" should have more than enough offense and really need to clear some top 9 guys for players like savoie, ostlund, kulich, rosen, so an expensive move for Pettersen is almost a Eichel in reverse.
Really it comes down to what BUF is missing. I think they have all the pieces BUT lack more two way play forwards, size/grit/physicality (especially on defense), and maybe upgrade in goal. Those are my opinions and maybe Im wrong, but with the good youngsters, great prospects and almost all the KEY pieces you need (No1 center, No2 Center, two very good scoring lines, a No1 dman, a No3 dman), but a better mix of vets/kids THROUGHOUT the lineup and a more balanced defense (I think they have too many puck rushers/movers) they will make the playoffs without a Pettersen.
If they could add a top 4 dman like Cernak and a (god forbid) Laughton/Perry/Gallagher-type to the 3rd line, (but not a Gallagher salary) and maybe a 13th forward goon type then that would fit my bill for a better mix then they have