The Buffalo Sabres have faced a challenging start to their season, beginning with a disappointing three-game losing streak. This rough beginning raised concerns among fans and analysts alike about the possibility of another season filled with struggles for a team that has not found consistent success in recent years.
Following a brief respite with two consecutive wins, the Sabres were then dealt a setback, losing 4-2 to the Montreal Canadiens on Monday. As frustrations mount, speculation about a significant overhaul of the roster is growing. Prominent hockey analyst Adam Proteau suggested he would prefer the roster of the rebuilding San Jose Sharks over that of the Sabres at this point.
Anthony Di Marco from Daily Faceoff highlighted that the Sabres’ defensemen might yield the best return in potential trades. He discussed players like captain Rasmus Dahlin, Bowen Byram, and Owen Power as keys to possible transactions. While Dahlin is expected to attract considerable interest due to his performance, the constraints of his contract, which includes a hefty $11 million annual average value and a full no-movement clause, could complicate any trade plans. Byram and Power may present more viable options for the Sabres given their more favorable contract situations.
On the offensive side, the Sabres have limited trade assets, with only Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch potentially generating significant returns. Young players such as Zach Benson, Jiri Kulich, and Jack Quinn show promise but lack the established track record needed to draw big offers. Thompson’s value as a two-time 40-plus goal scorer makes him highly sought-after, and if he becomes available, teams like the New Jersey Devils, who are in the hunt for a top scorer, could be potential destinations.
However, Proteau believes parting with Thompson would be unwise, as he is a key asset for the Sabres’ quest for a playoff berth. Tuch, on the other hand, may be more likely to be traded given his contract situation. The 29-year-old winger is eligible for free agency next summer and has suspended contract extension discussions with the team.
In Pittsburgh, Sidney Crosby, amidst continuing speculation about his future, reassured fans of his commitment to the Penguins. He is currently in the first year of a two-year contract but discussions about whether he will remain with the team through the conclusion of his career linger. Despite rumors linking him to teams like the Canadiens, who are in search of a strong second-line center, Crosby’s request for a trade appears unlikely at this time.
While challenges loom over both the Sabres and the Penguins, there remains hope for a positive turnaround as teams recalibrate their strategies in this early part of the NHL season. With potential trades and roster adjustments, each team has an opportunity to build for a brighter future.