The first domino in the goalie market has fallen.
As first reported by TSN’s Bob McKenzie:
Robin Lehner heading to BUF. Sounds like Lehner and Legwand to BUF for 21st pick. Pending trade call. Not official yet.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 26, 2015
The Sabres have since confirmed the trade.
That’s a pretty high price for a goalie, to be sure. But remember that Sabres GM Tim Murray was with the Senators when they drafted Lehner 46th overall in 2009. There’s a familiarity there, and obviously an appreciation for what the 23-year-old could become.
Legwand, meanwhile, has a year left on his contract with a cap hit of $3 million. The 34-year-old forward saw his playing time decrease dramatically under new coach Dave Cameron. The budget-conscious Senators will likely be content to shed his $3.5 million salary in 2015-16.
With Lehner off the market, attention now turns to Cam Talbot and Eddie Lack.