The Edmonton Oilers’ Playoff Journey
The Edmonton Oilers are making strides in their playoff journey, thanks to the entire team’s effort, but one player, despite being sidelined, should catch the eye of the Buffalo Sabres as he approaches unrestricted free agency this summer. That player is Connor Brown, a right winger for the Oilers who has been out since suffering a significant hit in Game 3 against the Dallas Stars.
Connor Brown’s Impact
Before his injury, Brown was instrumental in Edmonton’s postseason success, netting five goals and accumulating eight points in 14 playoff games.
Brown’s contributions, although not always flashy, stem from his relentless work ethic and tenacity, making him an integral piece of the Oilers’ puzzle while earning just $1 million this season. Over the course of the regular season, he managed to score 13 goals and totaled 30 points in 82 games, showcasing consistent performance throughout his career.
“Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs as the 156th pick in 2012, Brown has played for multiple NHL teams including the Ottawa Senators and Washington Capitals, achieving the milestone of at least 13 goals in five of his nine seasons, with two of those seasons seeing him surpass the 20-goal mark.”
Future Prospects and the Buffalo Sabres
Given his performance, it’s likely that Brown will seek a significant pay raise, which could mean he’ll be priced out of Edmonton post-season. Being a Toronto native, the possibility of returning to play in close proximity to home might also influence his decisions next season, presenting an ideal opportunity for the Sabres.
If Buffalo were to offer Brown a contract in the range of three years at $2 million per season, it could be an enticing prospect, especially as he has demonstrated his value during the current playoffs.
Opportunities for the Sabres
While there may not be fierce competition for Brown’s services, the Sabres should recognize the potential benefits of acquiring such a versatile and experienced player. With significant salary cap space available, they are in a prime position to pursue a player like him, especially as they look to strengthen their lineup with dependable role players.
Aiming for Brown could help the Sabres build toward future success, as they cultivate a team that is on an upward trajectory and seeking to make a strong impression in the league.
Conclusion
As the season draws to a close, Brown’s increasing visibility in the playoffs is likely to enhance his desirability on the open market, making it crucial for Buffalo to position themselves as contenders for his contract. Arming themselves with the knowledge of how to sell the benefits of joining their ranks could prove advantageous in their recruiting efforts this summer.
