The Buffalo Sabres may have to remain patient. A potential trade involving veteran defenseman Colton Parayko is still not finalized.
The Sabres and the St. Louis Blues reportedly worked out a trade framework. However, the deal cannot move forward without Parayko’s approval.
The reason is simple. Parayko has a no move clause in his contract. That gives him full control over whether he wants to accept the trade or not.
Right now, the decision is still pending.
Colton Parayko Buffalo Sabres trade depends on no move clause decision
According to reports, Buffalo would send prospect Radim Mrtka along with a first round draft pick to the Blues as part of the deal.
That package shows how serious the Sabres are about improving their defense.
But none of it matters unless Parayko agrees to waive his clause.
A no move clause allows a player to block any trade he does not want. Many experienced NHL players have this type of protection in their contracts.
If Parayko decides Buffalo is not the right destination, he can simply reject the deal.
As of late Wednesday night, there was still no clear answer from the player or the team about his decision.
Buffalo Sabres waiting on Colton Parayko trade decision before NHL deadline
Parayko also has no pressure to rush his choice. He can take time and evaluate his options before making a final call.
A similar situation recently happened with defenseman Tyler Myers. He also had a no movement clause and delayed a trade while waiting to see if a better opportunity appeared.
Eventually Myers ended up being traded to the Dallas Stars instead.
That example shows why patience could be part of the process.
The NHL trade deadline is approaching quickly. Teams must complete deals before 3 p.m. ET on Friday.
Buffalo would love to add Parayko to its roster. The veteran defenseman brings experience, size and championship pedigree after winning the Stanley Cup earlier in his career.
For now though, the trade remains incomplete. Everything depends on one decision from Parayko. If he approves the move, the Sabres could land one of the most valuable defensemen still available before the deadline.