As the NHL Trade Deadline looms just a week away, the Buffalo Sabres are actively exploring options to bolster their playoff hopes. A pressing need for the Sabres is adding depth to their blue line, especially given the injuries that have plagued the team. With players like Michael Kesselring and Conor Timmins missing significant time, and Coach Lindy Ruff hesitant to lean too heavily on Zach Metsa or Jacob Bryson, a defensive addition seems prudent.
Reports suggest the Sabres are eyeing a more robust presence on defense. With that in mind, here are four defensemen who could fit the bill for Buffalo as they approach the March 6th deadline.
Tyler Myers
Vancouver Canucks' Tyler Myers might be the towering presence the Sabres need. With a no-trade clause in play, Myers is reportedly considering a move, and Buffalo could be an ideal destination.
Myers is familiar with the Sabres and Coach Ruff, having played under him earlier in his career. His cap hit of $3 million is reasonable, and he has one year left on his contract.
Despite being 36, Myers is logging over 20 minutes per game. His experience and familiarity with Buffalo could make him a seamless fit, allowing the Sabres to manage ice time more effectively across their defensive pairs.
Logan Stanley
Should Myers decide against waiving his no-trade clause, Logan Stanley of the Winnipeg Jets presents a strong alternative. Standing at 6'7" and weighing 231 pounds, Stanley embodies the physicality the Sabres are seeking. He's averaged 16:43 of ice time across 56 games this season and has been a force in the defensive zone with 93 hits and 68 blocked shots.
Stanley's offensive game has also seen a boost, with nine goals and nine assists, marking a career high. His contract is appealing, with an AAV of just $1.25 million, making him an affordable option for Buffalo.
Luke Schenn
Another option from the Jets is Luke Schenn, known for his physical play. In 43 games this season, Schenn has delivered 133 hits, maintaining a career average of nearly four hits per game. At 36, Schenn could serve as an upgrade in the seventh defenseman spot, rotating into the third pair as needed.
His cap hit of $2.75 million is manageable, and acquiring Schenn likely wouldn't require significant assets in return.
Connor Murphy
Rounding out the list is Connor Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks, who has been identified as a strong fit for Buffalo's needs. Murphy has played 57 games this season, averaging 16:30 of ice time with 12 points. While he has a modified no-trade clause that includes 10 teams, his AAV of $4.4 million makes him an intriguing option.
Adding any of these four defensemen would enhance the Sabres' blue line, providing much-needed size and depth. With injuries always a concern, these potential moves offer insurance and could be pivotal as Buffalo eyes a playoff push.