This deal makes a ton of sense, since Montour should help replace the minutes lost when the Panthers saw No. 1 blueliner Aaron Ekblad go down to a season-ending injury in recent weeks. Montour is an unrestricted free agent this off-season, so Florida does not need to make a commitment to Ekblad's short-term replacement. This is a necessary move for the contending Cats.

The Sabres have endured a brutal 2020-21 campaign and are currently the worst team in the entire National Hockey League. So, they are likely to liquidate several assets before the trade deadline. Getting a third-rounder in the upcoming draft for Montour, who is on an expiring contract, is a nice deal for Buffalo GM Kevyn Adams. He needs more like this. Winger Taylor Hall is probably the next to go.

Montour's short-term fantasy value should improve greatly for the stretch drive. He is expected to log big minutes in Florida and may also see time on the power play. He may be worth a pickup in some leagues.