Something I haven't really seen anyone talk about when it comes to EP40 is that even if he bounces back next year, what gives you the confidence that he won't go through something like that again in the future? This type of inconsistency at $11.6M is too scary. What gives you confidence that Petey can be a top line match up center in the playoffs?
True stars don't disappear for extended periods like this - he's done this before a couple years ago and is doing it again.
The idea that EP can be a consistent 100 point guy should be erased from people's mind. At best he's a two-way point per game center that should be a 1B guy. He's closer to a Nico Hischier than a Jack Hughes - which is OK but not OK at 11.6M.
Trading EP is the best outcome. We can’t have this going on for another 7 years - best to cut it now. It’s like committing to a situationship for 7 more years where both sides have been toxic to each other and everyone should move on. It’s a 11.6M situationship.
The Sabres need a major shakeup. Cozens and Tuch for EP40 is such a no brainer for both teams.