[Hockey News]

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -Co-captain Daniel Briere has broken off negotiations with the Buffalo Sabres, deciding to test the NHL free agent market when it opens Sunday.

"We've made the decision to go to July 1 and sit down and seek all options at that point," Briere's agent Pat Brisson told The Associated Press on Friday.

The decision, which came a day after Briere traveled to Los Angeles to meet with Brisson, will make the player one of the most sought-after free agents. He's expected to attract offers above $6 million, coming off a career-high season in which he finished 10th in the NHL with 95 points (32 goals, 63 assists).

But Brisson didn't rule out the possibility of Briere re-signing with Buffalo.

"We haven't closed the door on Buffalo at all," he said. "There's no animosity; there's a lot of respect there."

AP Newsbreak: Briere to test free agency

[Lefty Noob]

This would be a HUGE blow to the Sabres. Where do you think Briere will ultimately sign?

[blueandwhite]

And looks like Drury is on the cusp of leaving too, though his agent is tight lipped.