The Sabres are entering another long offseason where they have missed the postseason. They have many questions to answer and not the least of which is to add depth to a roster in dire need of it. That is in particular at both wing positions. One player that they need to look at is a native of the Western New York Area.
Justin Bailey who played with the Sabres from 2015 to 2018 is currently under contract with the Anaheim Ducks organization. He was a popular player for the Sabres having been born in Buffalo. Now they should consider trading for him to add more depth to their wing position.
While playing for the San Diego Gulls of the AHL, Bailey had 22 points this past season. She scored 10 games in 35 games this past year. She had experience up and down the ranks as a right winger and would be an added addition to the Sabres.
Last season, the two best wingers were Alex Tuch and JJ Peterka but depth and reliability fell off after those two this past season. It will be important for the Sabres to build from the bottom up in order to give them a chance next season.
I had suggested in December the Sabres trade for Bailey and now that the offseason is upon us I still believe it would be a great move for the organization.
Bailey has 23 career points in the NHL thus far in his career
While with the Sabres, he had five goals including a game winning goal in 2017. That goal was his first in the NHL in a 4-1 win against the New York Rangers. He spoke with reporters of the meaning behind the goal.
It was a huge relief," Bailey said. "I've had chances in the past, and I can't say it hasn't been on my mind all last summer and this year too.
The right winger does have a cap-friendly contract and would not be much for them to try and bring him back. Also, the Sabres need to have good will with the community and having a native and fan favorite return could generate a lot of interest in the early part of the season.
As Buffalo continues to look for pieces to give them over the hump, the depth of the roster will be vital to doing that. A player like Bailey could provide just enough to help them get there next season.