Offseason Overview
The offseason for the Buffalo Sabres has not met expectations, particularly after the excitement of recent trades during the NHL Draft. High-profile players such as JJ Peterka, Connor Clifton, and Sam Lafferty have left the team, and there was hope that a significant acquisition could replace Peterka. However, those plans fell through when defenseman Bowen Byram signed a new two-year, $12.5 million contract last week.
Management Challenges
General Manager Kevyn Adams faces criticism as fans and analysts feel the team has not made substantial improvements since they fell short of playoff contention by 12 points last year.
Free Agency Prospects
While Jack Roslovic, who netted 22 goals while with the Carolina Hurricanes, is one of the more notable unrestricted free agents available, the Sabres may find their best option in a familiar face—Victor Olofsson.
Recent Additions
The latest addition to the Sabres roster, however, seems more focused on bolstering their AHL affiliate, the Rochester Americans. Recently, the team secured former NHL player Jake Leschyshyn by signing him to a one-year, two-way contract, which pays the NHL minimum of $775,000 and $350,000 if he plays in the AHL.
Leschyshyn was originally drafted by the Vegas Golden Knights during their first entry draft in 2017 and spent five seasons with the franchise before being picked up by the New York Rangers last year. His tenure in New York was brief, as he appeared in only 14 games while spending a bulk of his time with Hartford in the AHL, where he accumulated 24 points over 69 games—highlighting an opportunity for growth as he continues to develop his game at the professional level.
Stay Updated
Keep following Michael for more updates on social media platforms like X, Instagram, and Bluesky.
