Top 3 Buffalo Sabres takeaways after the NHL Trade Deadline

HAMILTON, ONTARIO - MARCH 13: Vinnie Hinostroza #29, Peyton Krebs #19 and Mark Pysyk #13 of the Buffalo Sabres celebrate a goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period during the Heritage Classic at Tim Hortons Field on March 13, 2022 in Hamilton, Ontario. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images)
HAMILTON, ONTARIO - MARCH 13: Vinnie Hinostroza #29, Peyton Krebs #19 and Mark Pysyk #13 of the Buffalo Sabres celebrate a goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period during the Heritage Classic at Tim Hortons Field on March 13, 2022 in Hamilton, Ontario. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images)
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NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 23: Victor Olofsson #71 of the Buffalo Sabres in action against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on October 23, 2021 in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils defeated the Sabres 2-1 in overtime. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Kevyn Adams’ offseason game plan

It’s easy to criticize Kevyn Adams’ mentality in immediate hindsight. And it’s easier to state the upcoming offseason remains shrouded in mystery, as stated in the opening slide.

The trade deadline came and went just over 24 hours ago, so perhaps Adams has something else up his sleeve. Yeah, he missed opportunities to acquire young talent and draft picks, but is he instead gearing up for a big offseason?

Adams could always pull off a blockbuster signing with the cap space accumulated from letting his most valuable veterans walk. There is also the possibility he’d rather pull off an offseason trade with those who remain behind. Kyle Okposo could always go, despite his 15-team no-trade clause.

Or, Adams may like what he’s seen in Victor Olofsson and Vinnie Hinostroza, both of whom have come on strong as of late. And if that’s the case, what’s not to say he doesn’t keep the duo around while seeking other options to bring to Buffalo?

If there is one positive about Adams’ desire to keep the Sabres competitive for the rest of the season, it’s that by doing so, he may be able to lure at least one big name to town. And if that’s the case, then Adams’ seemingly lack of action at the trade deadline turned out to be genius. We won’t know for sure until the offseason commences.