These are the 5 most likely NHL buyout candidates

3. Matt Moulson – Buffalo Sabres

Matt Moulson got sent down to the AHL by the Buffalo Sabres last season. Though he did an alright job in the AHL (46 points in 48 games), his time in Buffalo is probably over. Moulson put up zero points in 14 games during the 2017-18 season for the Sabres.

He signed a five year deal with Buffalo on July 1, 2014. After putting up 41 points in his first season with the Sabres, Moulson combined for just 53 in the next two seasons. He was never a fit with the team under Dan Bylsma or new head coach Phil Housley. A buyout makes sense for both parties.

The Sabres aren’t pressing for cap space, so a buyout isn’t necessary. But it would save Buffalo $1.333333 million in 2018-19. However, a buyout would also cost the Sabres $666,667 in 2019-20. Sending him back down to the AHL would make more sense because then Buffalo would be done paying him after next season.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Sabres buyout Moulson. Especially if the franchise is serious about sending a message about a culture change. Buying out Moulson could potentially wake up some of the veterans. But then again, because the Sabres aren’t foraging for cap space like the Flames and Wild, maybe they won’t.

One thing is for certain. Moulson has likely already played his last game with the Sabres.