Jack Eichel Trade Revisited: Did the Golden Knights or Sabres Win the Deal?

So let's revisit it, as this past Monday was the three year anniversary of the deal.

In 2021, Vegas brought in Eichel from the Sabres in exchange for Peyton Krebs, Alex Tuch, a first-round pick (Noah Ostlund), and a second-round pick (Riley Heidt). Vegas also received a third-round pick, which they used on Mathieu Cataford.

We know Eichel led Vegas to their maiden Stanley Cup in 2023 with 26 points in that postseason, while Buffalo hasn't made the playoffs since 2011, but the Sabres have quietly benefited from the players they acquired themselves.

Alex Tuch has been a Sabres standout from the trade. He's had solid production, including an impressive 2022-23 season with 36 goals.

Krebs, hasn't made as big an impact yet, and both Ostlund and Heidt are still developing in the minors. Cataford, the prospect Vegas snagged with their extra pick, is showing strong potential in the QMJHL, where he was last season's MVP and just won player of the month to begin his encore year.

Right now, it's clear why Knights fans feel they won the trade. A Stanley Cup is the ultimate prize, and Eichel's efforts were a big reason Vegas turned the silver chalice gold.

For the Sabres, the pieces are still coming together, so as it stands, this debate looks one-sided, at least until Buffalo makes a deep playoff run of their own with this core.