This is a huge development in the ongoing Jack Eichel saga. According to ESPN, the former captain is set to meet with the Buffalo Sabres management to let him get his preferred surgery.
As you know, Eichel’s injury has put a damper, not only on his career, but on the ongoing trade attempts that have been made to move him out of Buffalo. It had recently been mentioned that interested teams have expressed a willingness to make a move with the type of surgery Eichel is seeking. He favors having artificial disk replacement surgery. The Sabres have been against him having the procedure because it has never been performed on an NHL player. However, the Sabres’ way means that a patient could have three surgeries in 20 years. We can understand why Eichel wants to get it done his way.
Under NHL collective bargaining agreement rules, teams have the final say on how to treat injuries.
ESPN mentions that Eichel has met with several doctors over the past weeks “collecting medical opinions that support his preference to receive a disk replacement surgery. According to sources, Eichel’s camp is presenting that information to Buffalo management this week, hoping they will budge on their stance.”
If this does not go according to Eichel’s wishes, he could file a grievance, which would be viewed as a last resort.
Eichel switched agents back in August and is now represented by Pat Brisson, who can make tough moves when necessary. The forward is under contract through 2025-26 with a $10-million cap hit.
Eichel hasn’t played since March 7 when he sustained a herniated disk that has created a widening rift between the player and the Sabres. But this could be a huge development to get things going (in the right way) for the star player.
