Report: Eichel's camp set to present final case for disc replacement

Jack Eichel's representation is making one final case this week to convince the Buffalo Sabres to permit their former captain to get disc replacement surgery on his neck, sources told ESPN's Emily Kaplan.

Eichel has visited various doctors in recent weeks, collecting opinions that support his preferred method of repairing a herniated disc, Kaplan adds. The Sabres want Eichel to undergo fusion surgery, and the disagreement has been the main point of contention in the falling out between the two sides.

A disc replacement has never been performed on an NHL player but would have a faster recovery timeline. Under the league's collective bargaining agreement, teams have the final say on how to address injuries.

As many as five teams were interested in acquiring Eichel as of last week, but the Sabres remain firm on their asking price, according to Kaplan. Buffalo reportedly isn't willing to retain any of Eichel's $10-million salary in a trade.

The Sabres drafted Eichel second overall in 2015. He's notched 355 points in 375 games with the club.