Colton Parayko is reportedly heading to the Buffalo Sabres in a deal with the St. Louis Blues, pending approval.
Sources indicate the deal is contingent on the veteran defenseman waiving his no-movement clause.
TSN were the first to report the news.
Parayko’s Contract and Experience
Parayko is in the fourth year of an eight-year, $32 million contract. The 32-year-old recently played for Team Canada at the Olympics.
He was also a key member of St. Louis’ 2019 Stanley Cup-winning team.
Sabres Aim to End Playoff Drought
The Sabres are looking to snap the longest playoff drought in NHL history at 14 years. They are currently in a good position to do so, sitting in second place in the Atlantic Division as they approach the NHL trade deadline week.
In December, Buffalo promoted Jarmo Kekalainen, a longtime executive, to general manager. Since then, the team has recorded the NHL’s best record at 23-5-2.
Kekalainen has reportedly been in discussions with several teams to acquire a right-shot defenseman. This position is highly sought after by teams at this year’s deadline.
What Parayko Brings to Buffalo
Parayko, standing at 6-foot-6, would bring a physical presence to the Sabres’ blue line. He would also add ample playoff experience.
Blues Open to Offers
The Blues will likely miss the playoffs, leading general manager Doug Armstrong to inform other teams that he is open for business. Armstrong, who also served as the general manager for Canada’s Olympic teams, has reportedly engaged in discussions about several veteran players.
These players include goalie Jordan Binnington, forwards Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, and Brayden Schenn, and defenseman Justin Faulk.
Earlier in the week, the Blues and Sabres had reportedly discussed a deal for Thomas, but that fell through.