The Buffalo Sabres made a significant trade with the Edmonton Oilers, acquiring forward Ryan McLeod in exchange for one of their promising prospects, Matthew Savoie. McLeod, who recently had a successful playoff run with the Oilers, brings valuable NHL experience to the Sabres.
In addition to McLeod, the Sabres also received minor leaguer Tyler Tullio in the trade. McLeod contributed four goals in 24 playoff games as the Oilers made it to the Stanley Cup Final before ultimately losing to the Florida Panthers. He is signed for $2.1 million for the upcoming season, providing the Sabres with a talented player to bolster their roster.
Following the trade, the Sabres wasted no time in securing their defenseman Henri Jokiharju with a one-year contract worth $3.1 million. This move shows the team’s commitment to strengthening their lineup and improving their chances of making a playoff appearance.
It’s been a challenging road for the Sabres, as they have not made the playoffs since 2011, marking a 13-year drought that is the longest in the league. The acquisition of players like McLeod and the re-signing of key players like Jokiharju demonstrate the team’s determination to turn their fortunes around and compete at a higher level in the upcoming season.
In exchange for McLeod, the Sabres had to part ways with Matthew Savoie, the ninth pick in the 2022 draft. Savoie made his NHL debut in November and has shown promise as a young talent. While it’s always difficult to give up a prospect with potential, the Sabres felt that acquiring a seasoned player like McLeod was a strategic move to strengthen their team.
Looking ahead, the Sabres have some key players, including goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Beck Malenstyn, who have elected salary arbitration. This process will help determine their contracts for the upcoming season. Other notable players on the arbitration list include Ryan Lindgren from the New York Rangers and Martin Necas and Jack Drury from the Carolina Hurricanes.
Overall, the trade for Ryan McLeod represents a significant move for the Buffalo Sabres as they aim to build a competitive team and break their playoff drought. With the addition of experienced players like McLeod and the re-signing of key players, the Sabres are positioning themselves for a stronger performance in the upcoming season.