Buffalo Sabres Summary

The Buffalo Sabres made a notable roster move by trading defenseman Michael Kesselring to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for the No. 20 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, having previously held the 27th pick.

Kesselring, who is 26 years old and 6-foot-5, averaged 13:24 of ice time and recorded two assists in 34 games last season. Sharks general manager Mike Grier praised Kesselring's two-way ability and potential impact on their blue line.

Meanwhile, trade interest in Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram is heating up, with multiple teams reportedly inquiring about him. Byram, acquired from the Colorado Avalanche, has become a key player, posting career highs of 42 points last season.

As the Sabres navigate free agency, there's mounting pressure to re-sign forward Alex Tuch, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent. Tuch, coming off a strong season with 66 points, has an asking price around $10.5 million per year, with the Seattle Kraken showing interest in him.

The Sabres are also focusing on their strategy for the upcoming draft, eyeing potential prospects to select with their newly acquired 20th overall pick, including Gleb Pugachyov, a forward with power-forward potential, who ranked highly among European skaters.