A potential trade target for the Sabres has been activated off injured reserve by Columbus.
While the Buffalo Sabres are likely to sell off some of their pending UFAs, they are also likely going to at least pay attention to defensemen on the trade market. One Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman whom they should consider pursuing is returning from injury.
The Blue Jackets activated Adam Boqvist off of injured reserve today, and he is expected to play on the club's top pairing tonight when they face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Boqvist, 23, has not played since the Blue Jackets' Jan. 25 matchup against the Calgary Flames. While on the bench during the contest, he was hit in the face with a puck and was forced to miss time. However, he is now set to return, and the Sabres should keep an eye on him because of it.
Boqvist is a former first-round pick who has the tools to become a legitimate top-four offensive defenseman. While he has only seven assists in 20 games this season, he also had five goals and 24 points in 46 games just last season. Adding that kind offense to the point, especially on the right side, would be a good thing for Buffalo.
Boqvist carries a $2.6 million cap hit until the end of the 2024-25 season and has an RFA expiry status. Because of this, he would be far more than a rental if acquired.
Recent Sabres News
Which Teams Are Scouting The Sabres?
Sabres Defenseman Shares Thoughts on Ongoing Trade Rumors
Former Sabres Who Could Be Dealt By The Deadline
Sabres Could Use Team's Surplus to Make A Big Splash
Around the NHL
'We Are Going To Try Like Hell': John Tortorella Has Unique Exchange With Flyers' Fan
Avalanche should roll the dice with
People Just Don't Understand What Happened': Mikhail Sergachev Offers Perspective on Nikita Kucherov's Skills Competition Performance
Oilers' Superstar Connor McDavid Reveals His NHL Icons
Bruins Prospect 'Top Bargaining Chip' for 2024 NHL Trade Deadline