The Buffalo Sabres and restricted free agent defenseman Conor Timmins remain at a contract stalemate as their arbitration hearing nears. Timmins, recently acquired in a salary-driven trade from the Pittsburgh Penguins, seeks a substantial new deal, but the two sides have yet to finalize terms. This ongoing Conor Timmins arbitration dispute places uncertainty over his future role with the Sabres as the hearing approaches next week.
Maple Leafs Face Difficulty Selling Calle Järnkrok Despite Injuries
At the same time, the Toronto Maple Leafs are encountering obstacles finding a trade partner for veteran forward Calle Järnkrok. Although available, Järnkrok’s history of injuries—having appeared in only 71 of 164 possible games (43.3%) over the last two seasons—coupled with his 10-team no-trade list, have made a move challenging. The Leafs remain eager to clear salary cap space, but his limited play and trade restrictions have slowed this process.
Additional Roster Developments: Rangers’ Goalie Dylan Garand Progressing
Meanwhile, the New York Rangers are advancing in contract talks with their restricted free agent goalie Dylan Garand. The discussions signal an optimistic path toward Garand’s NHL readiness projected around the 2026-27 season, highlighting a strategic approach to building future talent within the organization.
Challenges Underscore Roster Management and Cap Space Pressures
The results of Timmins’ arbitration will not only shape his career trajectory with the Sabres but also underscore broader organizational shifts. Meanwhile, the Leafs face a complex roster dilemma if Järnkrok remains untraded, potentially affecting their offseason plans and salary cap flexibility. The obstacles both teams face with restricted players emphasize the difficulties NHL organizations encounter in managing contracts while balancing competitive and financial demands.
What Lies Ahead for Timmins and Järnkrok
As the arbitration hearing looms, the Sabres and Timmins appear poised to resolve their dispute, which could lead to a more prominent role for the defenseman. Conversely, the Maple Leafs must prepare alternative strategies should Järnkrok’s trade remain elusive, a factor that may influence future roster decisions. Across the league, close attention will also remain on Dylan Garand’s progression as he works toward a future NHL career.
“Timmins and the Sabres expect to settle their dispute in arbitration, scheduled for next week.” —Anonymous source
“The Maple Leafs are actively trying to shop Järnkrok to clear cap space without success.” —Anonymous source
“Garand’s contract negotiations show promise for a smooth transition into the NHL.” —Anonymous source
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Conor Timmins?
A. After playing in 51 games, which was his most in a season, Timmins was traded by the Maple Leafs. Due to salary cap considerations, he, along with Connor Dewar, moved to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, the Maple Leafs received a fifth-round draft pick in 2025. The trade took place on March 7, 2025.