Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams isn't in a rush to trade his franchise star Jack Eichel.
"What’s critically important to make sure is clear is that we’re in control of this process,” Adams said Thursday, according to The Athletic's John Vogl. “We have a player under contract. We don’t feel any pressure. If there’s a deal out there that we feel is the right thing for the Buffalo Sabres that’s going to help us improve - whether that’s improve right away or improve down the road, those are all the things weigh - we’d be open to it.
“But we’re not in a position where we feel we’re just going to do something to do it. That doesn’t make any sense.”
Eichel has been the subject of trade rumors for months. After how his neck injury was treated, the 24-year-old expressed there's a disconnect between him and the club. His status for the upcoming season is still uncertain.
Earlier this week, Eichel's agents said they expect the forward will be traded in the "near future." They were responding to Adams saying he would have "no problem" with Eichel still being with the club to begin training camp.
Adams confirmed he's still often discussing a potential trade with teams, and there's still a market for Eichel. But with the majority of this year's top free agents now signed, the number of potential suitors appears to be dwindling.
Eichel has recorded 139 goals and 216 assists over 375 career games. There are five years remaining on his contract with a $10-million cap hit per season, and a no-movement clause that kicks in after the upcoming campaign.
