Archives for July 1, 2011

‘The Sabres did not release terms of the deal, but it is reported to be a six- year, $27 million contract.’

‘From Finland, he has 30 goals and 43 assists for 73 points in 149 career games split between the Flyers and Detroit Red Wings over the past four years. He was a key cog in helping the Flyers reach the 2010 Stanley Cup finals, when he had seven goals and 14 assists.’

‘Leino played in 81 games for Philadelphia in 2010-11 and was fifth in team scoring with career highs in points (53), goals (19), assists (34), power play goals (5) and plus/minus (+14). Leino also chipped in five points (3+2) in 11 playoff games, including the overtime game winner against the Sabres in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.’

”No rewards without risks, but the Sabres have an almost gross amount of prospect depth. They’ve drafted defensemen for years and not sent them packing because of Golisano’s rules. They’ve got some terrific NHL-ready forwards as well, and now can deal those picks, which may not even be precious anymore.”

”It’s a $4.5 million cap hit, which is a ludicrously high number for Leino … unless, of course, Leino is entering his prime and can blend with a Derek Roy(notes) (or, potentially, a Brad Richards(notes)) and starts posting 65-70-point seasons. He also has 26 points in his last 30 playoff games, which can’t be underestimated.”

‘In 271 NHL contests with Colorado and Buffalo, the native of London, Ontario has totaled 17 goals and 50 points.’

‘Agent Patrick Morris confirmed the signing prior to the noon start of the NHL’s free-agency period.’

‘McCormick (6’3”, 221 lbs., 4/18/1983) is coming off his most productive NHL season, posting career highs in goals (8), assists (12), points (20) and games played (81) with the Sabres. The 28-year-old McCormick also led Buffalo with a career-best 142 PIMs, including 16 fighting majors.’

‘The structure of the deal -which would see Ehrhoff enter the first of his final three years at age 36 -is one the NHL doesn’t like because it remains to be seen if Ehrhoff actually plays those last three seasons.’