Unless the San Jose Sharks come up with a whopper of an offer, it's hard to see Brian Campbell staying out west. While there's been talk of Chicago, it seems likely that Campbell is going to be high on the shopping list of several Eastern Conference teams.
The Rangers have reportedly already been given the OK by the Sharks to negotiate with Campbell, with old friend Chris Drury a big factor in the recruiting. But several other teams are probably in the hunt as well. You'd have to compensate the Sharks with a draft pick or two if you sign him before July 1 but there's a thought that somebody might make a pre-emptive strike to get Campbell and be willing to make that sacrifice.
Most accounts have Campbell garnering $6.5-$7 million per season. Wow. Rough parts of the season in Buffalo, rough playoff in San Jose. And he's going to get that coin. Bank on it (no pun intended!) Still, I'd like to know which bonehead writer voted him first in the Norris Trophy balloting. No way. Jeez.
---Mike Harrington
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ex-Sabres
