Top Buffalo Sabres players to be traded this offseason

Oct 28, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Zemgus Girgensons (28) celebrates with right wing Kyle Okposo (21) his goal scored against the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at Honda Center. Okposo provided an assist on the goal. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 28, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Zemgus Girgensons (28) celebrates with right wing Kyle Okposo (21) his goal scored against the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at Honda Center. Okposo provided an assist on the goal. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
4 of 4
Buffalo Sabres
Feb 13, 2022; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Buffalo Sabres right wing Kyle Okposo (21) skates with the puck against Montreal Canadiens during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports

Kyle Okposo

Signed through 2022-23, the Sabres will pay Okposo $4 million if they keep him around for the next season, but he’s way too valuable to just let go for nothing. Earlier, I’ve stated that Okposo would be a dream trade for the Sabres (after Jack Eichel went to Vegas and Sam Reinhart, Florida) because he brings more than just production on the lower lines. Okposo also brings leadership.

Sure, $4 million is a hefty price for any team, even a strong contender, to pay for the 34-year-old winger. But if the Sabres are looking to eek out some middle-round draft picks and perhaps a few high-end prospects, Okposo is the guy to trade.

No, not every franchise will promise the Sabres a ransom. But strong contenders who see Okposo’s value as a leader in the locker room will willingly compensate the Sabres for his services. At the very least, they need to throw around the idea of moving Okposo.