Buffalo Sabres Summary

The Buffalo Sabres are considering signing veteran winger Reilly Smith to a professional tryout agreement as they prepare for the upcoming season, according to Yahoo Sports. Smith, who played for the Vegas Golden Knights last season, recorded 16 goals and 10 assists in 69 games.

His experience and playoff success could provide valuable depth to the Sabres' roster. Additionally, the Sabres face the challenge of defending their Atlantic Division title after ending a long drought last season.

With a total of 109 points, they narrowly won the division but will encounter tougher competition this year, particularly from the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers, both of whom have strengthened their rosters.

The last team to win the Atlantic Division in consecutive seasons was the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2019. Meanwhile, former Sabres head coach Don Granato has joined the Columbus Blue Jackets as an assistant coach, marking a new chapter in his career after his tenure with Buffalo ended in April 2024.

Lastly, promising defenseman Noah Laaouan has been making strides in the Sabres' prospect pool, showcasing his potential after a solid performance in the AHL and ECHL, while former Sabres defenseman Logan Stanley remains unsigned despite a breakout season last year, raising questions about player movement in the NHL market.