Sabres news: Uncertainty surrounds plans for goalies next season

Seven years ago, Ryan Miller was traded, and since then, the Buffalo Sabres have been looking for their next star in goal. Although they have brought in multiple goalies to try and improve the situation, including a trade for Robin Lehner in 2015, they have not yet found their franchise goaltender.

While Linus Ullmark and Carter Hutton have been the primary netminders for Buffalo over the last three years, both are becoming unrestricted free agents, and the Sabres have to decide how they view the immediate future at the position.

Over the last three seasons, Ullmark has developed into a starting goaltender and improved over each season. However, the injuries he has dealt with over the last two years illustrate the potential limitations to success, whether in Buffalo or elsewhere.

In 20 games played last season, Ullmark earned a record of 9-6-3, with a goals against average of 2.63 and a save percentage of .917%. Although it was his best season so far, multiple injuries shortened his campaign, and he faces an uncertain future as he heads into free agency.

Last month, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman wrote in his “31 Thoughts” column that a potential Sam Reinhart trade with Columbus might occur, and Buffalo is also looking for a goalie. If Ullmark is not in their future plans, Buffalo may look to receive one of their goalies, Joonas Korpisalo or Elvis Merzlinkis, in return if Columbus trades for Reinhart.

It appears the Sabres are once again committing to a rebuild, and it seems likely that, barring unforeseen circumstances, Ullmark will most likely be returning to Buffalo for the immediate future. Signing a contract worth $20 million over four years would make him the short-term answer in goal.

When it comes to backing up Ullmark, the team could go in a variety of directions, as Hutton is unlikely to return next season after an underwhelming tenure in Buffalo. Although Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made his NHL debut towards the end of last season, he should spend next year in Rochester as he continues to develop.

There are many goalies available this offseason, and the key component for a backup on the Sabres will likely come down to roster fit and cost due to the flat salary cap still in effect around the league. Netminders like Jonathan Bernier (24 GP), Petr Mrazek (12 GP), and Philipp Grubauer (40 GP) are among the goalies available this offseason, as they are all coming off seasons that make them names to watch, either as a starter or backup next season.

With Buffalo starting another rebuilding period, every position needs to be addressed by Kevyn Adams, especially in net. Whether it’s re-signing their own or bringing in fresh faces, the Sabres have to address this most important position, both now and in the years to come.