Winnipeg Jets' Nik Ehlers linked to the Buffalo Sabres

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Josh Tupper
July 5, 2024 (3:22 PM)

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The Buffalo Sabres and Winnipeg Jets have been linked in trade rumors in a possible transaction for Nik Ehlers.

The Buffalo Sabres, midst the longest playoff drought in professional sports, seek to bolster their offense by acquiring Winnipeg Jets forward Nik Ehlers. Ehlers, who informed the Jets he won't re-sign long-term, has been floated in trade rumors. The Sabres are willing to part with top prospects Jiri Kulich and Noah Östlund in exchange for the 28-year-old winger.

Kulich, 20, was drafted 28th overall in 2022 and impressed with 27 goals and 45 points in 57 games for the Rochester Americans (AHL). Östlund, also 20, was drafted 16th overall in 2022 and played for Vaxjo HC in Sweden, scoring 12 goals and 23 points in 38 games. He also appeared in two AHL games for the Americans.

Ehlers, a key player for the Jets since 2014, had a healthy season with 25 goals and 61 points. However, his playoff performance has been underwhelming, with only 4 goals and 14 points in 37 career games. Ehlers has a $6M AAV contract with a 10-team no-trade clause, giving him some control over his destiny.

The trade would provide the Sabres with much-needed offensive firepower, while the Jets would gain promising young talent. The deal's outcome depends on various factors, including Ehlers' willingness to accept a trade to Buffalo and the teams' negotiations.

Source: Blade of Steel
Atlantic Division Team Interested In Trading For Jets Forward Nik Ehlers