Tage Thompson is Living Up to His New Deal and the Sabres Might Just Be a Playoff Team

Tage Thompson signed a monster contract extension earlier this year, leading many to suspect it was too much too soon. The Sabres signed their premiere pivot to a seven-year, $50 million contract after just one productive season; Thompson nearly doubled his career production in one season.

When Thompson was slow out of the gate, critics of the deal came out in droves 'I told you so-ing' left and right. Well, those people were quieted rather quickly after Thompson posted nine points in his last two games, including a six pointer over Detroit last night.

After last night, Thompson now has 12 points (6g-6a) in 9 games and the Sabres currently sit tied for fourth in the NHL standings:

[NHL]

Last night's dismantling of the Detroit Red Wings was the latest event in the Sabres' campaign to break the wheel of pitiful hockey teams. The Sabres have not made the playoffs in 12 seasons but could break that spell this season. It is still very, very early. But they look great.

Check out Tage Thompson's monster six-point game against Detroit last night:

All in all, Thompson's deal could end up being an absolute bargain. This just goes to show the upside of signing young players to lucrative, long-term deals despite perhaps unproven production. The risk is still there, to be sure, but trading a young player with term is much, much easier than moving an older player with term. It really is a no-lose scenario for clubs. Unless, of course, the player completely shuts it down once he gets paid.

*Stares at Alexander Semin*

Another huge bonus for the Sabres and GM Kevyn Adams is the fact that they have the most salary cap space in the NHL, according to CapFriendly. With over $20 million to spend, Adams at least has the ability to add to this team if he feels they deserve it. There are a number of Grade-A trade targets out there, and the Sabres - on top of a deep purse - have the draft picks and prospects to make a big splash.

To summarize: the Sabres have the most cap space in the NHL, they currently sit T-4th in league standings, Tage Thompson might be unstoppable, and they have a bevy of youngsters - J.J. Peterka, Jack Quinn, Rasmus Dahlin, Dylan Cozens - who are clearly ready to take this team to the next level. Dahlin just broke the record for goals by a defenseman to start a season, after all.

If Kevyn Adams and head coach Don Granato continue to steer this team in the direction they are headed, they could have a perennial contender before we know it. I cannot, however, say with full confidence that they are a playoff team right now. But their start is very, very impressive.

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