The Sabres are one of the teams in the mix for this Kings forward.
The Sabres are one of the teams in the mix for this Kings forward.
The Buffalo Sabres are expected to add to their forward group this summer. It is understandable, as Victor Olofsson, Zemgus Girgensons, Tyson Jost, and Eric Robinson all have expired deals. Thus, the Sabres will almost surely need to add to their forward depth.
Like most teams right now, the Sabres are browsing the trade market for talent. According to The Fourth Period, one player whom they are currently linked to is Los Angeles Kings forward Arthur Kaliyev.
The Hockey News Buffalo's Michael Augello recently discussed Kaliyev as a potential trade target for the Sabres. The fit looks good on paper, and now we know that the Sabres do, in fact, have an interest in the skilled winger.
Kaliyev, 22, is looking for a change of scenery after a tough 2023-24 season with the Kings. In 51 games, the 2019 second-round pick posted just seven goals and eight assists. He notably fell down the Kings' depth chart, making him the subject of several healthy scratches during the year. In addition, he did not touch the ice during the playoffs.
While Kaliyev had a down year, there is apparent reason to believe that he can not only bounce back but also break out. He showed great promise just back in 2022-23, when he had 13 goals and 28 points in 56 games. The potential for him to be an impactful and big sniper in the NHL is there. Perhaps a move to Buffalo could help him take that next step.
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