5 defensemen the Sabres must consider trading for after Samuelsson’s injury

Philip Broberg could be a hidden gem at a cheap price

Let’s assume the opposite now, and the Sabres embark on a rough February and find themselves out of contention come March. Does that mean they need to either sell or stand by at the deadline, or could they find a potential hidden gem and strong developmental piece?

Philip Broberg is a former eighth-overall pick who has yet to make his mark in the NHL, having played in just 79 career games. Broberg also wouldn’t create much of a salary cap hit, and as a restricted free agent, he’s someone the Sabres could trade for and sign to a short-term deal while he continues to develop. 

Some fans would not be happy with this since it means Adams made yet another under-the-radar trade at best. But the fact is, Broberg is still a former first-round pick, and he was picked eighth-overall for a reason. His potential is beyond sky-high, so while the trade would look forgettable early, it shouldn’t be that way if he winds up in Buffalo or starts off in Rochester.

He’s been rather productive with the Bakersfield Condors this season, so just because this trade wouldn’t achieve blockbuster status, it’s still one that could pay the Sabres dividends in the future.