Three Potential Destinations for Sami Vatanen

Sami Vatanen is one of the best defensemen left on the free-agent market. The right-handed d-man spent last season between the Carolina Hurricanes and the New Jersey Devils, managing 23 points in the regular season and 3 more points in the playoffs. The 5'10 Finnish product has been in talks with several teams, so far, no offers that are worth agreeing to.

Once Vatanen signs his next deal, expect it to potentially come from one of these three teams:

New Jersey Devils

There have been rumblings about a reunion between the Devils and Vatanen, as the team hasn't closed the door on him quite yet. With his versatility to play both sides, Vatanen could be a valuable piece for the Devils, even after acquiring Ryan Murray. Adding Vatanen to Murray, PK Subban, Will Butcher, Connor Carrick, and Damon Severson would give the Devils an underrated defensive core. 

Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres continue to try and upgrade their team, after signing Taylor Hall to try and keep captain, Jack Eichel happy. Their defense could use some improvement for next season, and Vatanen would be able to provide it. Buffalo currently sits with 8 defenseman under contract for next season, but have been rumored to several trades, which could pull from the depth on their back-end. If Buffalo makes a deal including a defenseman, Vatanen could be signed soon after to fill the gap.

Florida Panthers

The Panthers are talking to several teams about a trade involving defenseman MacKenzie Weegar, which could open up a spot on their blue-line for Vatanen. Even if they don't deal Weegar, there's potential here. The Panthers could use Vatanen's ability to play the left side and his 51 playoff games, are great experience to bring forth for their core. Also doesn't hurt him and captain Sasha Barkov are close friends.

Sami Vatanen is likely surprised he's still on the free-agent market. His last contract saw him make just under $5 million dollars a year, and at this point, he's probably going to make something with a $3 to start. While the big dominoes have fallen with Alex Pietrangelo signing in Vegas, the market for 'Plan B's' is now starting to heat up. Keep an eye on Vatanen, he won't be available much longer.

Photo credit: John McCreary/Icon Sportswire