'It makes sense for the Sabres to wait until just before the 3 p.m. deadline to finalize a deal. A trade involving their top goal scorer virtually would concede their postseason bid, especially if they were to send him to the Islanders. The Sabres are eight points behind the Islanders for the Eastern Conference's eighth playoff slot. Any proposed Sabres-Islanders deal could be squelched if the Sabres make up ground over the weekend.'