“You never know. It’s a negotiation. It’s not something that usually happens overnight. “I don’t really know what I’m expecting as far as how smooth or how not smooth it’s going to go,” said Bogosian. “Yeah, I’ve really kind of settled in here and I’ve enjoyed my time. Whether it’s two years, eight years or 10 years, I’m going to enjoy playing here.

“I’m looking forward to that next step. I want to be part of the solution moving forward, as far as getting in the playoffs and winning a championship.”

Wheeler will be looking for a raise from his $2.55 million, and could get a long-term deal.

Little should get a multi-year deal for more than the $3 million he was making.

Alex Burmistrov is an interesting case, as some think he could bolt for the KHL or could use a fresh start with a new organization.

“Let’s be honest,” Vanek said. “I’m not stupid. I know I have a year left and they can probably deal me for prospects, young guys, whatever else is out there. Yeah, I’ve thought about it. If it looks like it’s a long rebuild, then it probably makes sense for both parties to move on.”

“I don’t know what the plan is,” Vanek said. “If they’re turning it over to the younger guys, it’s a turnover. Or are they going to build around us again? It’s all speculation at this point because you guys don’t know and I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

Sabres Ryan Miller also realizes that his days could be number.

“Around this stage of a contract, you have to be realistic,” Miller said. “In the last year of your deal, if you’re not part of the plan, you become an asset that’s tradable. So I’m just trying to stay open to coming back and trying to stay excited about playing hockey games in the NHL if it’s not going to work out.”