It seems like Buffalo Sabres will engage in some trade talks soon, even if they might not want to do that. According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, Sabres’ veteran defenseman Zach Bogosian recently handed in a trade request.
Reportedly, the reason for Bogosian’s move is his unhappiness with his role and playing time. The 29-year-old has been dealing with injuries early in the season and hasn’t been able to reclaim his role in the lineup upon return. He was also a healthy scratch in the recent game against Nashville Predators.
Bogosian, who is in the final year of his contract, played just 10 games this season, averaging 18:45 of ice time and contributing with three assists.
Considering that Buffalo currently has 12 defensemen in the organization, eight of them on the active roster, Bogosian might be successful in his attempt to leave. Sabres’ general manager Jason Botterill is reportedly on the market for some forward depth and might use Bogosian to get that.
Zach Bogosian, who was the third overall pick in 2008 by Atlanta Trashers, joined Sabres midway through 2014–15 season. Bogosian played well during his early time in Buffalo, but injuries have prevented him from making a more significant mark. He failed to play more than 65 games since joining the franchise.
Bogosian’s NHL career stats include 52 goals and 137 assists, for a total of 189 points, in 617 games.
