The Buffalo Sabres have been a storyline to follow this season in the NHL, but unfortunately, for all the wrong reasons. The Sabres come out of the holiday break sitting with a 12-19-4 record, dead last in the Eastern Conference.
From GM Kevyn Adams stating Buffalo isn't a destination city for free-agents, who anyone with trade protection, to head coach Lindy Ruff saying it's the toughest scenario he's ever been around throughout his decorated career, the Sabres need a reset.
It feels like there's a major shakeup coming, whether it's someone losing their job, or a big trade, it doesn't feel like the Sabres are going to sit on their hands. Here's three trade candidates to consider heading into 2025:
Jason Zucker
The Sabres felt they were closer to playoff contention than many people thought in the offseason, that's why they signed veteran forward Jason Zucker to a one-year contract. Now, at the bottom of the pack, look for Zucker to be traded in early 2025. The 32-year-old winger is on the books for $5-million and doesn't hold any trade protection. So far through 35 games he's scored nine times and recorded 23 points. The Vancouver Canucks are very familiar with Zucker's game, keep an eye on these two teams.
Dylan Cozens
If Adams feels his job could be in jeopardy, he may make a panic move, which could be trading Dylan Cozens. The former first-round pick is signed for $7.1 million AAV through the 2029-30 season, and his trade protection doesn't kick in for three more seasons. Cozens has scored just seven goals and 17 points in 35 games this season, and a ton of the blame has rightly, or wrongly, been put on his shoulders this season for the Sabres struggles.
Henri Jokiharju
Jokiharju is a pending UFA, making $3.1 million against the cap. The right-handed blueliner will be sought after before the trade deadline, and is certainly a player Adams won't have any issues moving. Jokiharju has averaged 17:55 of ice-time per game this season, seeing time on the Sabres' second penalty kill unit. He's recorded three points in 26 games, and will very likely be moved sometime in early 2025.
Photo credit: © Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
Post a Comment