Fantucchio’s Focus: Sabres Deal With Ducks; How Hurricanes Can Get Over The Hump

Good morning; my name is Andrew Fantucchio. It’s Saturday, August 19, and here’s what I’m focused on around the NHL today.

Sabres Send Lyubushkin to Ducks:

The Buffalo Sabres and Anaheim Ducks have made a deal to send defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin to southern California in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round draft pick.

Sabres Deal Lyubushkin To Ducks

The trade was first reported by Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff. Lyubushkin, 29, finished last season with 14 points and two goals in 68 games for Buffalo.

Sharks Hire Thomas Vanek and Ryan Miller as Scouts

The San Jose Sharks added a few big names to their scouting department, including former New York Islanders forward Thomas Vanek and former Sabres goalie Ryan Miller.

Sharks Add Ryan Miller, Thomas Vanek, Three Others to Staff

How the Hurricanes Can Get Over the Hump:

Three years running, the Carolina Hurricanes have won the Metropolitan Division and then failed to go the distance come playoff time. Bryant Baucom explains how the Hurricanes can get over the hump this season.

2 Things Must Happen for Hurricanes to Get Over the Hump

Hossa Hosts Farewell Game:

Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2020 inductee Marian Hossa hosted a farewell game in his native Slovakia yesterday, with a litany of NHL stars of past and present taking part.

Red Wings Join In Hossa’s Night of Celebration

More From National Hockey N0w:

Montreal: The most pertinent questions surrounding the Habs get answered by Marc Dumont.

Chicago: Tracking the development of the Blackhawks’ top prospects.

Nashville: After struggling early in his rookie season, Cody Glass knows he belongs in the NHL.

Los Angeles: What big things will Pierre-Luc Dubois Bring to the Kings?

Follow Andrew Fantucchio on Twitter: @A_Fantucchio