The Bleacher Report released their latest Trade Block Big Board, and three Sabres made the cut.
The Bleacher Report released their latest Trade Block Big Board, and three Sabres made the cut.
We are now exactly one month from the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. Due to this, trade chatter around the league is rapidly picking up, much to the excitement of hockey fans.
Because of this, Lyle Richardson released his latest NHL Trade Block Big Board for The Bleacher Report. The Sabres were certainly a notable part of it, as three of their players made the cut – Victor Olofsson (No. 11 spot), Erik Johnson (No. 13 spot), and Casey Mittelstadt (No. 19).
Olofsson, 28, is certainly not a surprise to see on this list. He has been in the rumor mill since the offseason, and that has only amplified as we get closer to deadline day. While he has had a tough 2023-24 season, posting just four goals and eight assists in 33 games, he should garner interest once we see bigger-name wingers get off the board.
Olofsson also scored 28 goals just last season and has three seasons with over 40 points, as Richardson notes. This could also lead to a team taking a shot on him, especially with retained salary.
Johnson, 35, has been picking up some trade buzz. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently wrote in his latest 32 Thoughts column that he expects Johnson to be dealt. Pierre LeBrun, however, also reported earlier this week that the Sabres want to talk with Johnson before committing to a plan with him, so a move is not necessarily guaranteed yet.
However, if Johnson is officially made available, he will be a solid trade target for teams needing help on the right side of their defensive group. With that, clubs will gravitate toward him because of his excellent leadership and overall experience.
Out of this trio, Mittelstadt is probably the least likely to be dealt before the deadline passes, but he is still a player to watch. NHL insider Kevin Weekes recently argued that Mittelstadt could be a trade candidate, as the Sabres have yet to give him a long-term extension like their other younger players. While it would be risky to part ways with him, he could be a player worth moving if it means bringing in a high-impact defenseman.
Mittelstadt has been the Sabres' best forward this season, as he has 12 goals and leads the team in both assists (30) and points (42). As a result, parting ways with him would be a big-time decision.
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