The Buffalo Sabres are facing a crucial offseason as GM Jarmo Kekalainen navigates the tricky waters of the salary cap for the 2026-27 NHL season. With around $13.2 million in cap space, according to PuckPedia, the Sabres have some big decisions to make, especially with Alex Tuch's hefty contract demands looming. Tuch, a key piece for Buffalo, is reportedly seeking $10.5 million, which would take up most of that available space.
Beyond Tuch, the Sabres have eight other free agents to consider. Among them, Beck Malenstyn, Zach Benson, Peyton Krebs, and Michael Kesselring are likely priorities for retention.
Meanwhile, the possibility of a blockbuster trade is also on the table, with rumors swirling around St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas, who carries an $8.125 million cap hit.
To keep the Sabres competitive in the Eastern Conference, the front office will need to get creative with their cap space. Here are some potential moves:
Trade Josh Norris
Cap savings: $7.95 million
Trading Norris might only be on the cards if they can land a high-end center like Thomas. Norris has battled injuries but has been productive when healthy, tallying 23 points in 29 games.
With Jiri Kulich expected back from a blood clot issue and prospect Konsta Helenius nearing NHL readiness, the Sabres have options to bolster their forward lines. Moving Norris could be feasible if they secure a proven playmaker.
Trade Bowen Byram
Cap savings: $6.25 million
Byram is set to become a UFA in 2027, and with Rasmus Dahlin, Owen Power, and Mattias Samuelsson anchoring the defense, a big extension for Byram seems unlikely. His production has dipped recently, with just 10 assists in the past 23 games. Byram could thrive elsewhere as a top-pair defenseman, and the Sabres might not need a direct replacement if they rely on their current defensive depth, including unexpected standout Zach Metsa.
Address the Jordan Greenway Situation
Cap savings: $4 million
Greenway's future is uncertain due to a persistent hernia injury. If he can't return, the Sabres could recoup $4 million by placing him on long-term injured reserve or through retirement. If Greenway decides to play, Kekalainen might consider trading him along with a draft pick to offload the cap hit.
These moves could free up $18.2 million in cap space, providing the flexibility needed to manage contracts and pursue new talent. As the Sabres aim to build on their recent success, these decisions will be pivotal in shaping their roster for the upcoming season.