If the Buffalo Sabres want to make a splash, they should keep an eye on this New York Islanders forward.
If the Buffalo Sabres want to make a splash, they should keep an eye on this New York Islanders forward.
The Buffalo Sabres brought in plenty of new players this summer. They specifically gave their bottom six a big makeover, adding Ryan McLeod, Jason Zucker, Sam Lafferty, Beck Malenstyn, and Nicolas Aube-Kubel. With this, the Sabres' depth heading into 2024-25 certainly looks stronger.
However, the Sabres have been unable to complete another one of their top summer objectives: bringing in another top-six forward. When looking at their current group, it is fair to say that they could use one more star in their top six, especially with the club desperately looking to break their 13-year playoff drought in 2024-25.
With it now being the middle of August, the potential of the Sabres making a splash before the start of the season is undoubtedly lower than it was around the draft. While this is the case, they should still watch potential top-six targets. One specific player who stands out is New York Islanders star Brock Nelson.
Nelson, 32, is entering the final season of his contract, so he has created some buzz as a potential trade candidate. While a trade before the season is highly unlikely, Nelson could become available if the Islanders drop out of the playoff race this campaign. If he were put on the block, the Sabres would be wise to make a big push for him.
Nelson would provide the Sabres with a significant boost in their top six, as he has blossomed into a very impactful goal-scorer over the last few seasons. In the last three campaigns, he has had 37 goals, 36 goals, and 34 goals. In addition, he posted 69 points in 82 games this past season for the Islanders. Thus, he would have the potential to be a significant addition to the Sabres' group.
Nelson can also play both on the wing and down the middle, so he would be a clear fit in the Sabres' top six. However, for Nelson to become potentially available, the Islanders would need to take a step back. We will need to wait and see what happens on that front.
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