CBS Sports

‘Adding drama to the “wherever that might be” quote above, Eichel also said that for now he realizes he’s with Buffalo, but didn’t write off the idea that things could change.’

‘The 24 year old had racked up 18 points (two goals, 16 assists) through 21 games this season. His goal scoring mark was the fewest he’d put together in his career so far. He was coming off of a career year last season with a 36-goal campaign. But falling short of expectations has been a theme for the Sabres this season. The team experienced an 18-game losing streak that went from Feb. 23 until March 29. They are currently last in the league with 27 points and a 10-25-7 record.’

‘The Sabres currently have the worst record in the league by a fair margin. They sit at a 6-22-4 record, having not won a game since Feb. 25, and have a dismal goal differential of minus-49. The next closest team in terms of win percentage is a tie between the Detroit Red Wings and Anaheim Ducks, who each sit at .353 for the season. As for goal differential, that’s lower than the next lowest total — also shared between the Red Wings and Ducks — by eight goals despite playing two fewer games.’

‘But nonetheless, the Sabres are closing in on history. If you look past the shootout era, since 1917 just three other teams have had longer losing streaks than Buffalo currently has. The Penguins (2003-04) lost 18 consecutive games while the Washington Capitals (1974-75) and San Jose Sharks (1992-93) lost 17 games.’

‘If the Sabres miss the playoffs again this season — which is highly likely — it would mark the 10th consecutive campaign in which the team failed to taste the postseason.’

‘The Sabres reportedly spoke to the NHLPA ahead of Sunday’s game with their concerns regarding play and the COVID-19 issues currently in the league.’

‘The pause of play could mean issues with the schedule, so the league is looking at making changes to their current slate of games. The NHL is expected to make a decision on next week’s games within the next few days.’

‘Playing alongside Eichel all year will likely beef up Hall’s production, and inflated stats means a bigger bag when it comes time to renegotiate next offseason. (Just ask Jeff Skinner how important that can be.) Eichel probably isn’t the only draw for Hall, either. The Sabres are coached by Ralph Krueger, who the winger played under in Edmonton during the 2012-13 season. Hall thinks highly of his former (and new) coach.’

‘”I hear that [trade talk] a lot,” Fish said. “Jack wants to win, he’s frustrated [not winning] but, no, he doesn’t want out. Jack is preparing to head to Buffalo at some point here and prepare for the season, whenever that may be. That’s all he controls.”‘

‘Overall, fans, players and other teams loved this reveal and gave their reactions on social media.’