Let’s assume for a second that Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams took an impromptu sabbatical and left me in charge of the team this summer.
In this alternate world in the multiverse, Buffalo Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams decided to go on a 12-week vacation, and, somehow I ended up in the driver’s seat as interim general manager. With all the decision-making power in this alternate timeline, how am I getting the Blue and Gold to the playoffs in 2023-24?
First off, my style wouldn’t deviate much from Adams’, as I’ve been a strong proponent of building through the draft, strengthening the prospects pool, trading stars from the “old regime” for young talent, prospects, and draft picks, and deviating from blockbuster free agent signings and trades for established talent who are only a handful of seasons from exiting their prime. But, the Sabres are potential playoff contenders in 2023-24, and I’d like to be the one to get them there.
My first pair of moves would be simple: Start negotiating with Rasmus Dahlin’s and Owen Power’s representation and get those long-term deals done BEFORE Adams returns for the start of the season. This would let me add two more puzzle pieces to the already brewing core for the Blue and Gold.
Work to promote young talent, add a few new pieces to the Buffalo Sabres
I’m also re-signing neither Kyle Okposo nor Zemgus Girgensons. They’re great guys and their leadership skills are top-notch. But we saw Rasmus Dahlin fully embrace a leadership position last season, and although he didn’t wear a patch, Dylan Cozens did a sensational job leading the Kid Line at such a young age. And finally, we got Alex Tuch, who looks more than ready to wear the C.
I also wouldn’t renew Vinnie Hinostroza’s contract, and in doing so, this would create three openings at forward for 2023-24. And once I sell Victor Olofsson’s services to another NHL general manager, it will create a fourth opening.
This would give us room to add the likes of Matt Savoie and Jiri Kulich, and I’d like to see them both on the third line with Casey Mittelstadt. Given the former eighth overall pick’s breakout performance last season, I more than have my trust that Mittelstadt can handle leading a pair of rookies.
On the fourth line, it gives Lukas Rousek and Brett Murray a chance to compete for the final spots with Tyson Jost and Jordan Greenway, while Peyton Krebs centers. While you may look at this and scoff at the further influx of youth, the Sabres have more than enough talent on the top six plus Mittelstadt and Krebs. They will remain effective at forward, even if we may see early growing pains.