AP sources: Eichel switching agents amid dispute with Sabres

By JOHN WAWROW
AP Hockey Writer

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — Four people with direct knowledge of the player’s decision have told The Associated Press that Buffalo Sabres captain Jack Eichel is changing agents while in the midst of a long-standing dispute with the team over how to treat a neck injury. The paperwork for Eichel to switch agents is in the process of being submitted to the NHL Players’ Association. Sportsnet.ca first reported the development. Eichel has chosen to go with Creative Artists Agency. He had been represented by the Massachusetts firm of Global Hockey Consultants. Eichel has been sidlined since March. He favors artificial disk replacement surgery. The Sabres oppose such a procedure because it has never been performed on an NHL player.