Real Kyper & Bourne The Rise of No-Move Clauses + Robert Thomas to the Sabres?
Mar 3, 2026
Jason Demers, former NHL defenseman turned NHL Network analyst, offers insider perspective on trades and contract protections. He discusses Robert Thomas' fit in Buffalo. He breaks down the growing use of no-trade/no-move clauses and how teams navigate them. He evaluates roster fits like Jason Robertson, Elias Pettersson and Oilers/Leafs trajectories.
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Robert Thomas Instantly Elevates Buffalo's Center Depth
- Robert Thomas would transform Buffalo's center depth and make their forward group among the NHL's best.
- Jason Demers argued Thomas is a 200-foot center who pairing with Buffalo's roster could immediately push them near the top of the Atlantic.
Refill Prospect Pools When Veteran Rosters Stall
- Rebuild prospect pools when veteran-heavy rosters stall rather than cling to short-term fan appeasement.
- Demers urged Toronto to get younger and refill prospects after a veteran-driven season and injuries left them listless.
Fix Defense And Goaltending Before Chasing Scoring
- Address defensive structure and goaltending rather than just add scorers to a high-offense team.
- Demers suggested the Oilers need defensive reinforcement and a reliable goalie, not just more scoring wingers.