The Columbus Blue Jackets did not have any names that were appealing for the Buffalo Sabres to sign, so it's the Dallas Stars turn. Dallas is currently battling the Edmonton Oilers in the third round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. They eliminated the defending Stanley Cup champs Vegas Golden Knights in the first round and just sent home the Colorado Avalanche.
In terms of their unrestricted free agents, the Stars have some intriguing names. If this player is available for the Sabres to sign, Matt Duchene is the free agent I would love to steal from Dallas. For the record, I'm sure Duchene would love to stay with the Stars. But if he wants to see what else is out there, Buffalo should consider making an offer.
In 80 games played this season, the Stars forward scored 25 goals, registering 40 assists for 65 points on the year. He was also a +15 in 2023/2024, the best plus/minus in his career. Duchene is also having a good postseason with two goals and four assists in 13 playoff games played.
Even at the age of 33, Duchene is still a difference maker. Just two years ago, he scored over 40 goals when he was a member of the Nashville Predators. Not only can he bring leadership and scoring to Buffalo, but he is something general manager Kevyn Adams is looking for in the offseason. A reliable third line center.
This season with the Stars, Matt won 56.5% of the draws he took. Center is something the Sabres lack, especially with their depth. I'm not sure if he would be on the third line, but he still can be very helpful for Buffalo. With their top two centers being Dylan Cozens and Tage Thompson, adding a player like Duchene to the mix would be a good thing for the Sabres.
Up next, the Detroit Red Wings.