Archives for June 2001

'A Sabres spokesman said there had been no developments as of 1:30 p.m. Saturday and was not sure if the team would hold a news conference. Hasek was at his suburban Buffalo home awaiting word. The Sabres gave permission to Hasek's agent, Rich Winter, to speak on a limited basis to other teams.'

'The Sabres also hold a club option on future Hall of Famer Dave Andreychuk. And fan favorite Rob Ray, an unrestricted free agent, is contemplating retirement, especially if he isn't brought back.'

'The Sabres yesterday made qualifying offers to center Francois Methot, the Amerks' leading scorer last season, and left winger Darren Van Oene. The procedural offers mean the team will retain their rights even if the players reject the contract proposals.'

'If the Sabres are going to deal Hasek, the best time to do so is now.'

'Rob Ray, the Buffalo Sabres all-time penalty-minutes leader, expects to become an unrestricted free agent Sunday. That doesn't mean he won't stay in Buffalo.'

'As for Hasek, the six-time Vezina Trophy winner will walk as an unrestricted free agent if the Sabres don't pick up his $9 million option or work out some sort of trade before midnight Saturday.'

‘The thrifty Sabres probably will keep Hasek’s rights. They then would have 3 1/2 months to work a trade before owing him a penny. NHL players draw their salaries in two-week installments in the regular season, which opens in October.’

'Sources have told FOXSports.com that the Red Wings are still very much interested in Hasek and are looking to try and get a deal done via trade or with cash should the Buffalo Sabres goalie come onto the market via unrestricted free agency on July 1.'

'The Sabres have the option of trading Hasek before then. But what team would swing that deal today if it can go after Hasek as an unrestricted free agent on Sunday?'

'Along with Hasek, the Sabres have yet to determine whether to exercise a one-year option on veteran forward Dave Andreychuk.'