Hasek Out, Biron Value Up

The injury to Dominik Hasek could not have happened at a better time for the Buffalo Sabres. 7 years ago this would be bad news for fans of the sharp knives but in 2006 the story is much different. Now that he is in Ottawa, Hasek has been the Sabres nemesis rather than savior. He has provided the Sens with a reliable steady presence in net as well as a playoff resume of success, something Patrick Lalime lacked.
Right now the Hasek injury helps the Sabres directly and indirectly.
Directly, the Senators are left deficient at goaltender. Even if Hasek can play, he may not be at 100 percent. When Hasek returns he may not be as willing to bend his body in his usual manner out of fear of reinjury. This mental issue has not been a problem for Hasek in the past but he was a younger man than. This means the Sabres have a better chance of catching the Sens in the standings
Indirectly the injury increases the trade value of Marty Biron or whatever goalie the Sabres decide to trade. John Muckler has stated his displeasure with the play of backup Ray Emery and this recent injury maybe what it takes to force his hand and make a deal. With one more team looking for a goalie, the supply becomes that much more valuable. The Sabres will not trade with the Senators but with Kolzig staying put in DC that leaves Cujo as one of the only goaltenders left on the market that is a proven playoff commodity (unless JS Giguere is considered available). Marc Denis is my pick to end up in Ottawa but Muckler is a bold GM and I would not be surprised if Roberto Luongo ended up in Ottawa with Hasek retiring at the end of the year.