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Crisis in Buffalo: Sabres Stars Could Walk Amid Explosive Team Meltdown
Photo credit: Buffalo Sabres official
Things are going from bad to worse in Buffalo, as new reports coming out by Frank Seravalli reveal major locker room conflict, which could lead to trades.
The offseason is still spiraling out of control for Sabres Nation, with rumors now suggesting that up-and-coming star JJ Peterka is ready to escape Buffalo.
Referencing Frank Seravalli of 'Daily Faceoff Live', Peterka will be looking to test the free-agent waters this summer.
He is not the only one showing his discontent. Several of the players, reported to be tired of the club's stagnation, are considering their future, and Bowen Byram appears to be among them.
"At least a quarter of the Sabres roster unhappy with direction of team; Owen Power, Alex Tuch, Mattias Samuelsson, other core players could enter trade market."
- Frank Seravalli
- Frank Seravalli
Bowen Byram has cleared out his house, as he has high intentions of leaving the team
Byram has already cleared out his Buffalo home, sending a message about his intention to leave. Maybe Peterka is doing the same now.
Peterka is off of a breakout year, notching a career high 68 points on 27 goals and 41 assists. Losing him would be a major blow to a team still seeking stability.
Kyle Dubas must act to make his team younger
This is a perfect opportunity for Kyle Dubas to act and swoop in for some of these unhappy young Sabres players. They would be the perfect addition for the franchise and would love playing alongside Sidney Crosby.
The Sabres have not made big front office or coaching changes this offseason, which continues to frustrate fans more and more. There have certainly been some quality signings, but they are not the bold moves fans were hungry for.
The organization still goes on and on about exercising patience, but the payoff remains the same. Promises of a brighter tomorrow ring hollow when power players keep leaving.
If Buffalo doesn't make radical, meaningful changes, both on and off the ice now, they risk losing not just Peterka, but the public's trust, too.
If Peterka leaves and no adequate reinforcements are signed or traded for to fill his position, fan frustration will only increase. The Sabres must do everything in their power to keep him around, or risk watching another star blossom elsewhere.
| POLL | ||
MAI 29 | 175 ANSWERS Crisis in Buffalo: Sabres Stars Could Walk Amid Explosive Team Meltdown Will the Buffalo Sabres make several trades this offseason? | ||
| Yes | 144 | 82.3 % |
| No | 31 | 17.7 % |
| List of polls | ||