Insider criticizes the big trade the Oilers did with the Sabres for Matt Savoie

The move on the Sabres end was quickly criticized by NHL insider Frank Seravalli.

McLeod, a key cog in Edmonton's recent Stanley Cup Final run, joined Buffalo alongside minor leaguer Tyler Tullio. The move was made because the Oilers are over the salary cap and someone had to go. Unfortunately, it was the 24 year-old speedster who's on a $2.1 million cap hit.

For Buffalo, they acquire a third line center that fits their team of youngsters, but it came with a big and debatably overpriced cost.

That's why many fans in Edmonton celebrated the move because in exchange for cap dumping a player, the Oilers received Savoie, who, was a ninth overall pick in 2022, and screams NHL stardom once he fully develops and reaches the show for good.

If that wasn't enough, the Sabres saw Jeff Skinner, who they bought out with three years remaining on the contract, take less money to sign in Oil country. Throw in most players returning and Viktor Ardvidsson, and you can see why they're Stanley Cup favorites for the upcoming season.

https://x.com/nhl/status/1810404739324018865?s=46&t=yPo8xhaBTcZP7mkzEJs97A

The Sabres' gamble on McLeod's playoff pedigree and immediate contributions contrasts with the potential long-term gains from retaining Savoie.

Here's why I like the trade for Buffalo ⬇️
https://x.com/saraaholland/status/1811229733188673774

Yet it's understandable on their end because they're willing to do anything to snap their 13 year playoff drought, even if it means unloading their prized prospect at the top of their elite pipeline for a third line center.

It makes this trade a hot topic among NHL analysts to debate throughout the Summer.