* The quotes in Red are mine and added for dramatic effect. *
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The Eichel situation is both sad and interesting. From what I read, and I've followed it pretty closely...
* Jack neck is bad. At first, they worried he might not play again.
* Sabres told Jack to rehab and he followed their advice.
* Eichel's neck did not get better after ~5 months (he still couldn't lift his arms over his head) but the Sabres said to :
Stay The Course = Time + Physical Therapy
* Eichel got his own doctor. His doctor, like all doctors, wants to operate. In fact, he wants to try something "experimental" for an athlete.
* Eichel told the Sabres about the experimental surgery. The Sabres and their doctors asked :
"Are you INSANE ?!?!"
* Eichel pushed back because he's worried he won't get better without surgery.
* The Sabres told Jack NOT to mess with his neck because he won't be 24 forever and you should NOT let anyone cut your back/neck open - let alone try something new.
* Eichel said,
"Screw you, I want out of Buffalo!"
* Eichel still wants surgery. The Sabres still think it's a bad idea - as do I.
* Sabres have tried but can't get any quality offers because Eichel's health/future is iffy.
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Sabres' stance on Eichel getting surgery hasn't changed (audacy.com)