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Jacob Bernard-Docker was exactly what the Sabres needed defensively

Bernard-Docker’s unexpected presence has given Sabres fans a lot to look forward to as he can solve their bottom-six defensive issue.
ByZackary Laware|
Apr 6, 2025; Buffalo, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker (24) gets a drink during warmups before a game against the Boston Bruins at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
Apr 6, 2025; Buffalo, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker (24) gets a drink during warmups before a game against the Boston Bruins at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images | Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

It was a year full of surprises for the Sabres, but one that fans didn’t expect was the emergence of Jacob Bernard-Docker. Bernard-Docker came over from the Senators during the trade deadline in the Dylan Cozens trade and made the most of his time in Buffalo.

Bernard-Docker, at just 24 years of age, has solid potential and the chance to be a leader on the back half of the Sabres’ defense. Bernard-Docker was solid on the third line for the Sabres and paired up well with Jacob Bryson.

Grade: A-

Bernard-Docker, in just fifteen games with the Sabres, was a solid defenseman. He tallied four points and a positive plus-minus of +3. Bernard-Docker is a restricted free agent, and I think he will get a contract right around 1.25 million per year, maybe a little bit more.

The reason his grade is so high is that I love the potential that Bernard-Docker brings to this team. The Sabres need a solid defensive defenseman on each line, and Bernard-Docker can do just that for them, and at a reasonable price.

What will the 2025-2026 season look like for Bernard-Docker?

With Bernard-Docker expected to play a full season in 2025-2026, I would like to see him get around 20-30 points. He has the ability in this Sabres offense to put up great numbers, and on the defensive side of things, he will make it much easier for his goalies.

Bernard-Docker should be on the third line with Connor Clifton, as Jacob Bryson will slide to the reserve defenseman role. I think those two together would be a solid pairing for the Sabres. However, things could change depending on what happens with the other defenseman on the team, and who knows, maybe he could end up on the second line.

We could see Bernard-Docker have a breakout season, and I’m all for it. The Sabres need all the help they can get defensively, as they were one of the worst defensive teams in the league last year.

With the possible defensive pairings that the Sabres have next year, if their defense improves just to that of an average team, then they are definitely a playoff contender. The x-factor next year could just be Bernard-Docker on defense as the Sabres look to end their playoff drought.

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