This former Sabres defenseman could be dealt by Friday.

The Buffalo Sabres are a team to watch very closely over the next few days leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. Players like Kyle Okposo, Erik Johnson, Zemgus Girgensons, and Victor Olofsson all have a shot of being dealt.

However, a former Sabre is also standing out as a trade candidate, as the Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly open to hearing offers for defenseman Chad Ruhwedel.

According to the Fourth Period, the Penguins "have several players they are willing to entertain trade calls about" and Ruhwedel is of the many players "believed to have generated various levels of discussions with other clubs."

Ruhwedel, 33, is a pending UFA who could be a good addition for a playoff team looking to add more depth to their defense. The San Diego native has appeared in 45 games this season with Pittsburgh, posting one goal, four points, 73 hits, and a minus-4 rating.

Ruhwedel also has an easily affordable $800,000 cap hit, which adds to his overall appeal. If acquired by a contender, he could be a decent addition to their bottom pairing and be an option for their penalty kill. 

Ruhwedel spent his first four seasons in the NHL with the Sabres, posting two assists in 33 games. 

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