Martin Necas

The Carolina Hurricanes’ season came to an end on Thursday night. The Metropolitan Division club allowed four third-period goals to the New York Rangers and was knocked out because of it. Now, with several players having expired contracts, they have some big decisions to make.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman provided a big update regarding Hurricanes restricted free agent Martin Necas on a recent edition of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast. He noted that the Hurricanes could trade Necas’ signing rights this offseason. He said that he doesn’t believe the Hurricanes will do “what Necas wants to do” and other players like Jake Guentzel (UFA) and Seth Jarvis (RFA) have become bigger priorities.

With Necas potentially becoming available, the Buffalo Sabres must make a push for him. The Sabres are looking to build on their top six, and bringing in a star like Necas would allow them to do just that.

Necas, 25, would have the potential to be a long-term part of the Sabres’ roster if acquired. He is still a young forward with several years left in his prime. As a result, he’s exactly the kind of player the Sabres would want to bring in and keep for several seasons.

The Sabres also have the trading assets to add a star like Necas. They not only have a valuable first-round pick this year but also an array of notable forward prospects who could grab the Hurricanes’ attention.

If the Sabres acquired Necas, he could make real magic on a line with either Tage Thompson or Dylan Cozens. He would also give the Sabres’ power play a significant boost because of his high offensive skill.

Let’s see if the Sabres make a push for Necas from here. On paper, it looks like there could be a great match.