Kekäläinen on trade with Chicago, pending free agents and more
NHL.com • • sports
Key Points:
- The Sabres traded defenseman Bowen Byram to Chicago due to his refusal to negotiate a contract extension, acquiring two 2026 draft picks and defenseman Louis Crevier, whom they view as a high-upside player with strong character.
- Buffalo is actively exploring options to replace Byram, leveraging multiple draft picks and potential trades, while valuing the No. 4 overall pick highly but remaining open to offers.
- Forward Alex Tuch is expected to enter free agency after the team failed to reach a contract agreement, with the Sabres confident in their depth and development prospects to fill his role.
- Recent moves include trading up to the 20th pick in this year’s draft to target specific players, and ongoing contract discussions with restricted free agent Zach Benson and unrestricted free agent Beck Malenstyn.
- The Sabres’ goaltending was solid this past season, and the team plans to maintain their three-goalie rotation while remaining open to improvements; overall, the team’s recent success has improved Buffalo’s reputation as a desirable destination for players.
