The Sabres should be eyeing this Kings defenseman if he hits the free-agent market.
The Sabres should be eyeing this Kings defenseman if he hits the free-agent market.
The Buffalo Sabres significantly improved their blue line at the trade deadline, acquiring Bowen Byram from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Casey Mittelstadt. The move is benefitting both clubs early on, but the Sabres should not be done building their defense.
The Sabres' next objective should be to add a top-four, right-shot defenseman. This year's free agency class offers a few of them, and one who should grab their attention is Los Angeles Kings defenseman Matt Roy.
The Kings have a tough decision to make with Roy. While he has been a key part of their group for many seasons, their right side is crowded. Drew Doughty is still a top-pairing defenseman, while youngsters Brandt Clarke and Jordan Spence are ready for bigger minutes in the NHL. That may make Roy expendable in LA.
If Roy hits the market, he would be a clear target for the Sabres. He plays a solid all-around game, as he is very dependable defensively, never shies away from throwing the body, and chips in offensively. Thus, he would be a big-time addition to the Sabres' blue line.
Roy would also be a good veteran for the Sabres to bring in for young defenseman Owen Power. His strong defensive play would allow Power the opportunity to take more chances offensively.
Nevertheless, if Roy hits the market, expect Buffalo to be among the suitors for his services.
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