General manager Jason Botterill believes the Sabres and Eichel will come to terms on a contract extension sooner than later, the Olean Times Herald reports.

EDGE Analysis

"Both parties would like to get a deal done," said Botterill in the report, even though it's still uncertain when that will be. Eichel has expressed an interest in returning to Buffalo and said he's okay with playing out the season without an extension, but it's in the interest of both parties to come to terms on a long-term deal. Despite being hobbled by a high-ankle sprain last year, Eichel was a dynamic offensive force on the Sabres upon his return, finishing 19th in the league with 249 shots on goal despite missing 21 games. He's the Sabres' franchise forward and worth picking in the early rounds in any fantasy format. A 30 or 40-goal season is not out of the question for the talented sniper.