Report: Kane's future in Buffalo just got confusing

Well this is interesting.

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 6 years ago
Report: Kane's future in Buffalo just got confusing
KeyStone Press

The Buffalo Sabres are dealing with the possibility of dealing Evander Kane this season, as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

But with Kane raising his play this season, scoring at a point-per-game pace, it's possible that the winger doesn't go anywhere this season, or for the foreseeable future.

Things are going well with new coach Phil Housley.

“I know that Phil Housley has got a lot of time for Evander Kane,” Darren Dreger said on WGR 550 radio in Buffalo. “And not just because he’s generating a good chunk of offense. There’s been a connection between coach and player, and that’s important. There’s value in that."

He also added this.

“Well look, is it a possibility that Evander Kane agrees to an extension and stays with the Buffalo Sabres long term? Of course it’s a possibility,” Dreger admitted. “Last time I checked, which was maybe a few days ago, there hasn’t been dialogue yet between Newport and the Buffalo Sabres. I’m not suggesting there won’t be. It’s a possibility."

The discussions haven't picked up yet, but his play and connection to Housley may put a wrench in rival teams' plans to acquire the scoring winger.

Kane remains at the top of most people's trade bait lists, and it's still a strong possibility that the controversial player finds a new home at some point this season, but his value to the team may force Botterill's hand. 

Dreger reported that he hasn't found a single team willing to offer Kane 7 years at this point. If Buffalo steps up to the plate and offers him a max deal, he may stay a Sabre after all.