As the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches, the Buffalo Sabres find themselves in unfamiliar territory - not as sellers, but as buyers. Sitting in the thick of the playoff hunt, Buffalo is eyeing moves that could finally snap a 14-year postseason drought. And with the Winnipeg Jets trending in the opposite direction, struggling through a disappointing campaign, there’s a clear opportunity for the Sabres to strike.
If Buffalo is serious about making a push, they’ll need to shore up their blue line. That means targeting players who can bring stability, physicality, and experience to a young defensive corps. Winnipeg, a team likely to be active on the selling side of the deadline, has a couple of intriguing options that check those boxes.
Luke Schenn: Veteran Presence with Playoff Pedigree
Let’s start with Luke Schenn - a name that should be familiar to any team looking to add grit and experience on the back end. The 18-year NHL veteran and two-time Stanley Cup champion isn’t going to wow you with flashy plays or offensive upside. But that’s not what Buffalo needs from him.
What Schenn brings is a steady, right-shot presence - something the Sabres could use more of on their blue line. He’s a physical, stay-at-home defenseman who thrives in a bottom-pairing role and is especially effective on the penalty kill. For a Buffalo team that has shown flashes of potential but still struggles with consistency in its own zone, Schenn could be the kind of stabilizing force that pays dividends down the stretch.
Beyond the on-ice impact, Schenn’s leadership could also be invaluable. With a roster full of young talent, having a seasoned pro who’s been through the grind of the playoffs - and come out on top - could make a real difference in the locker room.
Logan Stanley: Size, Snarl, and a Career Year
If the Sabres are looking for a bit more upside and physical dominance, Logan Stanley is another name to keep an eye on. While he’s a left-shot defenseman, Stanley’s playing style could still make him a great fit in Buffalo’s defensive rotation.
At 6-foot-7, Stanley brings a towering presence to the ice - and he knows how to use it. He plays a heavy, punishing game that could add some much-needed bite to Buffalo’s blue line.
And this isn’t just about size and physicality - Stanley is also putting together the best offensive season of his career. Through 55 games, he’s already hit career highs with nine goals, nine assists, and 18 points.
That kind of production from a defenseman known more for his physical edge is a bonus, and it suggests Stanley is growing into a more complete player. For the Sabres, he could be a high-upside addition who contributes right away while also fitting into the longer-term picture.
Final Thought
Buffalo’s front office has a real opportunity here. With the Jets likely open for business, the Sabres could address a key need on defense by targeting either Schenn’s veteran reliability or Stanley’s size and emerging two-way game. Whether it’s a short-term rental or a piece for the future, both players bring qualities that could help Buffalo finally punch its ticket back to the playoffs.
The drought has gone on long enough. If the Sabres want to change the narrative, now’s the time to act - and the Jets might just have the right pieces to help them do it.