Despite getting calls from around the NHL, don’t expect the Buffalo Sabres to just give Zemgus Girgensons away, without receiving considerable compensation.

Zemgus Girgensons entered the 2016-17 campaign, with the knowledge that this would be a defining season in his NHL career. Still undecided on whether the center is a long-term fixture on the roster, the Buffalo Sabres signed him to a one-year, $1.15 million.

In essence, the Sabres were telling Girgensons to prove he is worth a longer deal, or risk being shipped out of town. If the latest speculation is anything to go by, he may not even last the rest of this season in Western New York.

As reported by Sportsnet‘s Elliotte Friedman, the Sabres have been getting calls about the Latvian international. It appears his lack of ice time in recent games, has teams convinced he is ripe for the picking.

Girgensons has struggled mightily this season, adding weight to the analysis that he is incapable of adapting to Dan Bylsma‘s system. He has already endured a 21-game goalless streak, while also registering a 13-game run of no points whatsoever.

With all this in mind, there is a growing sentiment that maybe the 22-year old needs a change of scenery, to rejuvenate his career. Whether this actually happens, is another thing altogether.

Friedman goes on to write that although Girgensons is seeing less ice time, it doesn’t mean Tim Murray will just give him away. The question is, what would the Sabre’s general manager want in return?

Rumor has it that the Anaheim Ducks were in talks with the Sabres during the offseason, with the asking price apparently being one of their talented young defensemen. However, the Ducks’ were not prepared to agree to such a deal, without some kind of sweetener.

Understandably, critics will wonder why anyone would even consider giving up anything significant, for a player who is struggling so much. However, the answer comes in the reason why teams are asking about Girgensons in the first place – his potential.

Yes, the 2012 14th overall draft pick has been extremely inconsistent up to this point in his NHL career. However, he has the talent to become an imposing two-way player and only figures to improve, especially if he fills out his frame.

Overall, with the Sabres needing to strengthen their blue line, it will be interesting to see if any team is willing to meet their asking price. No matter how this pans out though, you get the feeling Girgensons’ time in Buffalo is coming to a close sooner than later.

Where do you stand on Girgensons? Do you want to see the Sabres give him longer to develop, or is it time to pull the plug on his tenure in Western New York? Share your thoughts in the comments section.