Unlike the Maple Leafs were with Nazem Kadri and the Rangers still apparently are with Derek Stepan, the Buffalo Sabres seem open to the idea of giving Cody Hodgson a long-term contract.
Hodgson, 23, is a restricted free agent. And according to Sabres general manager Darcy Regier, both short- and long-term deals have been discussed (per John Vogl at the Buffalo News) during negotiations.
Hodgson had 34 points in 48 games last season, second to only Thomas Vanek’s 41 points for the Sabres.
If there’s a comparable long-term contract to look at, it may be Adam Henrique’s six-year, $24 million deal with the Devils. Hodgson, however, might prefer to sign a shorter, cheaper bridge deal, then go for the home run in a year or two.
Whatever length of deal ends up being struck, Regier reportedly sounded optimistic today that one would be done soon.
#Sabres Darcy Regier said he's working on Cody Hodgson's contract, talked to agent this morning. Believes efforts from both sides means ...
— Bill Hoppe (@BillHoppeNHL) September 11, 2013
would indicate want to get something done as soon as possible.
— Bill Hoppe (@BillHoppeNHL) September 11, 2013