OTP - ESPN's Wyshynski On The Sabres Core Group The Buffalo Sabres are expected to be busy this summer in the wake of Lindy Ruff replacing Don Granato as head coach. Although GM Kevyn Adams stressed bringing accountability to a young core group that took a step back after missing the playoffs by one point in 2023, he will also be looking to make adjustments to a roster that had significant shortcomings and one that fits better Ruff’s style of play. The task of snapping their 13-year playoff drought will be difficult, especially with some of their Atlantic Division competitors making improvements. Toronto is expected to make changes, as Stanley Cup winner Craig Berube was introduced as the Maple Leafs head coach on Tuesday. Berube similar to Ruff is looking to bring accountability to the Leafs, who have not been able to get past the second round of the playoffs since 2002, and Toronto will likely be considering some of the same physical, energetic players as the Sabres in free agency or on the trade market. Ottawa hired new bench boss Travis Green last week, and they have decisions to make on defenseman Jakob Chychrun going into the final year of his contract. Detroit missed the playoffs by one point and are going to be looking for an upgrade between the pipes, while Boston will be targeting centers after struggling to score in the postseason. Tampa Bay has gotten the jump on their competition by re-acquiring defenseman Ryan McDonagh from Nashville for a pair of draft picks on Tuesday. The 34-year-old won two Stanley Cups with the Lightning in 2020 and 2021 and requested a trade from the Preds. With the deal, GM Julien Brisebois solidified the Lightning’s defense, but adding McDonagh’s $6.75 million salary may make it impossible for Tampa to re-sign pending free agent Steven Stamkos. The Lightning team captain is coming off a 40-goal season and looking for one more long-term deal. If Tampa cannot accommodate, teams like the Bruins, Red Wings, Leafs, and Sabres could be interested. LATEST THN BUFFALO STORIES Sabres Say They Are Ready For Accountability [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/buffalo-sabres/latest-news/sabres-say-they-are-ready-to-be-held-accountable] Ruff Sees Similarities Between Sabres And Former Club [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/buffalo-sabres/latest-news/ruff-sees-similarities-between-sabres-and-former-club] Ruff Hopes To Bring Winning Culture Back To Buffalo [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/buffalo-sabres/latest-news/ruff-hopes-to-bring-winning-culture-back-to-buffalo]
