The recent trade between the Sharks and the Sabres, where the 11th overall pick went to San Jose for the 14th and 42nd picks, had a significant impact on the race for Martin Necas.
With this trade, the Sabers trade their 11th overall pick, eliminating them from the race for Necas, after rumors suggested that pick could have been included in an offer for the Hurricanes forward.
This development leaves the New Jersey Devils as favorites with their 10th overall pick to obtain Necas.
But beware. According to Boston journalist Jimmy Murphy, the Montreal Canadiens are still in the race.
Remember that Frank Seravalli and Pierre LeBrun, two of the most respected informants in the NHL, did not agree on the future of Martin Necas.
Seravalli said the New Jersey Devils were the favorite, having offered the 10th overall pick in the trade.
For his part, LeBrun had suggested that the Buffalo Sabres were also serious contenders with an offer including the 11th overall pick, but that option is now out of the question.
Frank Seravalli described the complex situation new Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky finds himself in. He’s got his head under water with the Necas deals while trying to manage other important issues like Seth Jarvis’ contract extension and his attempt to re-sign Jake Guentzel.
According to Seravalli, the Devils’ offer, including the 10th overall pick, could come to fruition on the first night of the draft, depending on the selections.
With the Buffalo Sabers now out of the running for Martin Necas, the main contenders appear to be the New Jersey Devils.
But now the Montreal Canadiens have not said their last word. It was a duel between Buffalo and New Jersey. But now that the Sabers are “out”, the CH is more than in the race.
Other teams such as Columbus, Calgary, Boston, Chicago, Detroit and Nashville are also monitoring the situation closely.
But right now, the Devils are being talked about as the big favorites. And the CH in 2nd position.
This competition for Necas promises to be exciting until the end, with twists and turns possible until the last minute.
Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton lie in wait.
