Are the Buffalo Sabres a defenseman away from a playoff spot?

It seems like the Buffalo Sabres biggest need going into the offseason is defensemen. And they will most likely land a playoff spot if they get one.

Looking back on the Buffalo Sabres 2022-23 season, there was one lingering issue. Last offseason, the goaltending was the biggest question mark going into this season. Even though it still could be a need, I believe the blue line could use a major upgrade for the team.

I know this past season was viewed as a developing year for Buffalo, but based on the results from this year, adding a solid defenseman or two could possibly launch the team into the playoffs next year. Looking at the defensemen already, there are a couple of solid names that are viewed as assets.

Last offseason, Buffalo locked up Mattias Samuelsson long term. Barring something crazy, I think it’s safe to say both Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power will be locked up very soon with long term contract extensions.

After those three names, the rest of the blue line could definitely be upgraded. Jacob Bryson signed a short term extension in the Summer of 2022. Ilya Lyubushkin signed a two-year contract with the Buffalo Sabres via free agency last summer, and Henri Jokiharju is going to be a RFA in 2024.

Buffalo Sabres need at least one more blueliner to be playoff bound

Looking at the unrestricted free agents in the defensemen class, it’s not very strong, but there are a few names who could be upgrades over what the Sabres have at this moment. Just a few of those names include John Klingberg, Matt Dumba, Radko Gudas, Dmitry Orlov, and Damon Severson.

Obviously things could change if those players sign contract extensions with their current teams. But if they are available, I would love Buffalo to try and target those players. So it begs the question, are the Sabres one or two defensemen away from being a playoff team?

I think the answer is yes. Looking at the forwards, I think they are all set there. Maybe depth signings at best, but it’s not their biggest concern. You can argue goaltending is a need as well, but in so many games last season, the defense left the goaltenders out to dry.

I don’t care who was in net, there were so many defensive breakdowns in games during the season. If general manager Kevyn Adams brings in another solid defensemen or two, then I think the Buffalo Sabres could make a run for the playoffs next year.

They were so close to making it this season, I think playoffs are the expectation and upgrading the blue line could help out with that. Whether it’s through a trade or free agency, I would be happy with either.