Sabres Should Take Big Chance on Ex-Rangers Forward

The Buffalo Sabres should consider extending a PTO offer to this veteran forward.

With NHL training camps just around the corner, teams are starting to bring in players on professional tryout (PTO) agreements. Some players who have landed PTOs recently include Tyson Barrie (Calgary Flames), Tyler Johnson (Boston Bruins), Jakub Vrana (Washington Capitals), and Calen Addison (Ottawa Senators).

At this juncture, the Buffalo Sabres have not invited anyone to training camp through a PTO. Yet, when noting that they could use at least one more skilled winger in their lineup, they should seriously consider changing that.

The Sabres should consider taking a flier on one intriguing player: veteran forward Blake Wheeler. 

It is fair to argue that the Sabres could use another right winger based on their current roster. If they added Wheeler on a PTO, he would provide them with another potential option for their bottom six, at a minimum. However, if he regained some of his previous scoring touch, he would have the potential to be a solid middle-six addition for Buffalo.

Wheeler, 38, had a tough 2023-24 season with the New York Rangers, posting nine goals and 21 points in 54 games. He also suffered a serious leg injury that ended his regular season in February. He did, however, return for one playoff game this past spring.

While Wheeler saw a dip in offensive production this past season, he could be a bounce-back candidate if given another chance. He has had an excellent career and put up strong numbers not too long ago. For example, just back in 2022-23 with the Winnipeg Jets, he had 16 goals and 55 points in 72 games. In addition, he had 32 goals and 106 points in 115 games with the Jets from 2020-21 and 2021-22.

Ultimately, with the Sabres needing more help on offense, taking a chance on a former star like Wheeler could be worthwhile. He could be a decent depth forward for the Sabres if he earned a deal. 

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