Report: Sabres' Henri Jokiharju Drawing Trade Interest After 4 Nations Performance
Buffalo Sabres defenseman Henri Jokiharju is emerging as a strong trade candidate ahead of the trade deadline, bolstered by an impressive performance at the 4 Nations Face-Off, according to Lance Lysowski of Buffalo News.
The 25-year-old logged significant minutes for Finland alongside Olli Määttä and even found the scoresheet against Team USA. His play earned praise from Finland head coach Antti Pennanen, who called him “really solid.”
While Jokiharju has struggled offensively this season with just four points in 39 games, his defensive reliability and puck-moving ability make him an interesting option for teams seeking blue-line reinforcements.
On a roster loaded with talent, one player rose above the rest.
— Nick Veronica (@NickVeronica) February 14, 2025
Only one player was skilled enough to score on the vicious American defense.
His name is Henri Jokiharju, and he’s a pending UFA.
RT to make sure every GM knows of this skillful player.pic.twitter.com/so0CzjTIQd
With Buffalo near the bottom of the standings and Jokiharju on an expiring $3.1 million contract, multiple teams are showing interest.
The Florida Panthers are searching for a right-shot defenseman after losing Adam Boqvist to waivers, and Jokiharju would fit seamlessly alongside fellow Finns Aleksander Barkov, Niko Mikkola, Eetu Luostarinen, and Anton Lundell.
Florida’s cap situation complicates a deal, but Sam Bennett, also in the final year of his contract, could be a trade piece to balance salaries.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs could consider a package involving David Kampf, Conor Timmins and a pick, while the Edmonton Oilers view Jokiharju as a potential low-cost addition with upside.
Analyst Alan Mitchell noted, “There’s risk, but the upside—speed, size, skill—is too much to pass over.”
HENRI JOKIHARJU! FINLAND STRIKES FIRST 🇫🇮#4Nations pic.twitter.com/xQgJ5XZRgM
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) February 14, 2025
Jokiharju’s role in Buffalo has diminished this season, but he remains a steady presence on the blue line and logged a career-high 20 points in 74 games last year.
A change of scenery could help him regain that form, especially with a contending team looking for depth.
Buffalo has already shown a willingness to move players, and with the Panthers, Maple Leafs, and Oilers among those exploring defensive upgrades, Jokiharju seems likely to be wearing a new jersey before the playoffs begin.
Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
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