It's no surprise that the Islander organization has a knack for finding the good young Russian Talent- well, on Sunday Oct 7th they got the best. Buffalo will send Nikolai Kulemin, who they spent the 15th overall pick in the 2007 draft in and Igor Grigorenko to Long Island in return for NYI 1st in 09' 2nd 09' and Scott Clemmensen.
To NYI: Nikolai Kulemin, Igor Grigorenko + 7th ('08)
To Buffalo: NYI 1st 09', NYI 2nd 09' + Scott Clemmensen
Buffalo attributes the deal to developing a team identity. "As much as we love those two kids, we feel their styles don't fit into a collective team identity that we're striving for.", said Luke Wile (Cogm of the Buffalo Sabres)
Many people in Buffalo can't understand the move of Nikolai Kulemin in which the Sabres burned a 15th overall pick in a strong draft class for. Kulemin who led the Super League in Scoring last year at age 20 has a good reputation for playing an all around game as well.
Grigorenko, who is a bit more of a high risk high reward player outscored the likes of Alexander Semin in 2003 at the age of 19 on Tolyatti Lada if the Russian Superleague by 13 points; however, the superstar RW suffered a horrible car accident and went through year of physiotherapy. Things are looking up for Grigorenko who recently made the trip across the pond to North America in attempt to solidify a position in the NHL.
Although Buffalo takes a step back in development, they feel they have enough depth for now to take a small step back. The club justifies the trade because of their strong scouting throughout the all levels of the organization. " We have one of the best scouting groups in the entire NHL, and they're getting better every year. " Coach Tom Renney explains.
Also coming to Buffalo is vetern goaltender Scott Clemmensen who will start the season in Rochester. Clemmensen is a proven backup in the NHL and will be battling to take over that position with youngster Josh Harding.
Even though Buffalo and Long Island are state rivals, they aren't afraid to work with each other and deal assets. One thing is for certain, the winner of this deal won't be determined for at least 5 years.
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"With Sid on your team, anything is possible" - Mario lemieux
