Mailbag: What should the Buffalo Sabres do with the 13th pick?
By Zach Jezioro
The Buffalo Sabres will be picking 13th overall in this years NHL Draft. We asked fans what they thought. Keep reading for the answers.
Earlier on in the week, the NHL held their draft lottery. The Buffalo Sabres were given the 13th overall pick in this year’s draft so I asked Sabres fans what they think the team should do with the pick. Here are some responses and my reaction to them. Enjoy the latest mailbag article!
Trade it for a top 4 defenseman. Can’t keep all our prospects
— Ranting Ron ⚔️ (@Ranting_Ron_716) May 9, 2023
I am in agreement with this. General manager Kevyn Adams said some good things about the blue line, but I feel like changing up the rotation should be a priority for the Sabres in the offseason. You have Devon Levi and you have a “scary good” offensive unit. But Buffalo’s defense was the biggest weakness last season, so it would be great if they were able to bring a solid defenseman or two.
Fans’ takes on what the Buffalo Sabres should do at 13th overall?
Pellikka, Reinbacher or Yaeger are the targets IMO
— Pandamonium (@Pandahandling) May 10, 2023
Of course, staying at 13th overall is always an option as well. I see most fans say they wouldn’t mind trading the pick, but there are some out there who want to stay which is okay. You still have free agency to address the blue line if you’re the Sabres. My only argument is the free agency market for defensemen is pretty weak. There are a few solid options but nothing crazy.
Trade to improve next year.
— T.Johnson (@sabers_chatter) May 10, 2023
Your prospect is super deep at forward ( not great on d)
But if you trade your 13th o.a and get a top4 dman that can last in that position for 4-5 years- I'd make that trade every time.
Next year needs to be in the playoffs
After how good the Sabres were this season and barely missed the playoffs, making the postseason next year sounds like it should be the goal. As I mentioned earlier in the article, Buffalo is very strong on offense. It seems like those who want to trade the 13th pick want to get a defenseman.
More. Top 4 Sabres to watch at the 2023 IIHF Worlds. light
In my opinion, I say try to trade it for a solid blue liner. So many breakdowns happened in games this season. Odd man rushes, breakaways, turnovers, you name it. The Sabres blue line struggled, so I feel like if you can get a solid player for the 13th pick then do it. And hey, if no one wants to trade with you then just keep it. But I would like to see if they can get someone who will help out their defensive core.