Who Could the Sabres Target to Improve Their Defense Corps?

The Buffalo Sabres surged on offense this season, but their goals against held them back. Speculation suggests there are many options to upgrade their defense.

The Buffalo Sabres made significant improvement this season, but their defensive play derailed their playoff hopes. 

While their 3.57 goals-per-game ranked third overall, their 3.62 goals-against was the league's seventh-highest.

Sabres management could seek an experienced netminder on a short-term contract to mentor promising goalies Devon Levi and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Meanwhile, shoring up their blueline is expected to be their priority.

The Buffalo News' Lance Lysowski anticipated that Sabres GM Kevyn Adams will explore this summer's trade and free-agent markets for a top-four defenseman. The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn shared that view.

Lysowski suggested free-agent options such as the Seattle Kraken's Carson Soucy, the Minnesota Wild's Matt Dumba, the New York Islanders Scott Mayfield and the New Jersey Devils' Ryan Graves. Dumba was among Fairburn's choices, along with the Devils' Damon Severson, the Florida Panthers' Radko Gudas and the Boston Bruins' Connor Clifton.

According to Lysowski, the Sabres aren't likely to spend big in this summer's free-agent market. However, the opportunity to skate alongside a star like Rasmus Dahlin or promising Owen Power could be enticing to one of those UFA blueliners.

Graves might be the best option if he becomes available. The 27-year-old is a big shutdown defender who'd also be a good fit with the young Sabres roster. 

Lysowski also suggested the Calgary Flames' Rasmus Andersson, Vegas Golden Knights Shea Theodore and the Chicago Blackhawks' Connor Murphy as trade targets. It's doubtful Andersson or Theodore will be available, given their value to their current clubs. However, the rebuilding Blackhawks might be willing to entertain offers for the oft-injured Murphy.