NHL Rumours: American Thanksgiving and the Buffalo Sabres

Analysis: The Sabres have not made the Stanley Cup Playoffs since the 2010-11 season. The 13-year stretch is the longest active playoff drought in the league. Many great players, such as Ryan Miller, Ryan O’Reilly, and Jack Eichel, to name a few, have come and gone, with some even winning the Stanley Cup with other teams. A similar fate may be in store for some players on this season’s Sabre team. 

For general manager Kevyn Adams, it only makes sense to sell if the team is not a playoff contender. However, the Sabres have been selling for many years. For fans of the team, this will be nothing new. 

Potential Players on the Block

Alex Tuch

The pending unrestricted free agent is the most likely to be on the move. At 29 years old, Tuch is in the prime of his career. The forward scored 36 goals last season, marking the second time in his tenure with the Sabres that he scored 30 or more goals. 

A team that acquires Tuch would not only gain his goal-scoring capabilities but also someone with experience in the playoffs. In 2018, Tuch helped the Vegas Golden Knights reach the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season. 

Bowen Byram

Byram’s name came up several times over the summer. He is under contract through the 2026-27 season. That will likely not deter the Sabres from moving him, especially if the return is good. Byram is coming off a career-high 38 points last season. As a result, his value is the highest it has ever been and can continue to rise if he maintains his current production level. 

Due to the remaining years on his contract, Byram could bring the best return of the likely Sabres on the trade block. At 24 years old, many strong seasons could be ahead for the team that acquires Byram. 

Other Names

Tuch and Byram stand out as likely candidates due to their contract statuses. However, it would not be surprising to see Adams shop players like Tage Thompson and Owen Power, if for no other reason than to see what the return could be. There is no harm in reaching out and seeing what is available. 

A Happy Thanksgiving?

This Thanksgiving could mark the beginning of yet another sell for the Sabres. Fans are used to it, but will still be frustrated. Perhaps Buffalo fans can join hands at the Thanksgiving dinner table and give thanks for Josh Allen, who could bring a championship to Buffalo, making any Sabre-related suffering a little more bearable.