One free agent for Buffalo to sign from Detroit

Apr 7, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere (41) and Buffalo Sabres left wing Zach Benson (9) fight for position in the third period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 7, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere (41) and Buffalo Sabres left wing Zach Benson (9) fight for position in the third period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports / Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Shayne Gostisbehere has had a solid career. After breaking into the league with the Philadelphia Flyers back in 2015/2026, Gostisbehere has established himself as a reliable defenseman. That is why he is the UFA from the Detroit Red Wings that I want the Buffalo Sabres to sign in free agency.

While he is a left-handed shot which is something the Sabres don't need, the Florida native would be a solid addition for the blue and gold. In 81 games played with Detroit this year, Gostisbehere scored 10 goals and registered 46 assists for 56 points. Even though he was a -16 during the year, I think Kevyn Adams should try to sign him.

Disregarding his plus/minus, Shayne has put up good numbers throughout his career. Ignoring the 2014/2015 campaign where he only played two games, Shayne recorded five or fewer goals in only one of his 10 years in the NHL.

I'm sure fans want Patrick Kane to be the player from Detroit and while it would be a cool homecoming for the Buffalo native, I don't think he is a priority. Gostisbehere is 31 years old and with how young the Sabres defenseman are, adding Shayne to the mix could help the franchise take the next step.

Gostisbehere signed a 1 year, $4,125,000 deal with the Red Wings last year in free agency. That's a pretty fair amount for the blue liner and I could see the Sabres offering that. If he is available, Buffalo should try to bring him in. I don't see him asking for a ridiculous amount of money and with his age, it could be a match made it heaven.

In regards to where he would fit into the lineup, maybe the second or third pairing. The next team we will take a look at is the Edmonton Oilers.

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