More fuel added to the speculation of a potential Jack Eichel trade to the Big Apple

Buffalo Sabres captain Jack Eichel has found himself in the headlines earlier this offseason after his allegations that there's a "disconnect" between himself and the club regarding a neck injury that he suffered, and that this reported rift between the two sides could lead to Eichel wearing a different uniform next season.

“There’s been a bit of a disconnect between myself and the organization,” Eichel said Monday. “It’s been tough at times. Right now, for me, the most important thing now is to try to get healthy and figure out a way to be available to play hockey next year, wherever that might be.”

Eichel has yet to play meaningful hockey in his relatively young six-year NHL career, and the Sabres don't appear any closer to breaking their decade-long playoff futility streak than they were when he was drafted 2nd overall behind Connor McDavid in 2015. Meanwhile, speculation continues to abound that Eichel could be on the move. But where could he ultimately end up? 

How about the Big Apple? Sports Illustrated is certainly throwing some gasoline on that fire. Lyle Richardson penned an article earlier today detailing a few hints that Eichel could soon find himself in the bright lights of New York in a potential deal that would see 

Take a look for yourself: 

"The NHL off-season is rolling along with the Buffalo Sabres no closer to trading Jack Eichel. Nevertheless, The Athletic's Rick Carpiniello felt we shouldn't be surprised if Mika Zibanejad is part of a deal that brings the Sabres captain to the New York Rangers.

Carpiniello tossed off that possibility on Monday, adding fuel to speculation percolating during last weekend that a trade could be close. It began last Thursday with Eichel starting a Twitter account making no mention of the Sabres. The following day, MSG Network's Steve Valiquette tweeted out,“My Spidey senses are tingling. Eichel #NYR”

There doesn't really appear to be any more lingering doubt that the Sabres and Jack Eichel are headed for an inevitable divorce. Could a trade to the in-state rival and Original 6 Rangers make the most sense for the disgruntled 2nd overall draft pick from 2015? Only time will tell at this point.