In addition to getting Josh Norris from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for Dylan Cozens and Dennis Gilbert, Buffalo acquired newest defenseman for the blue and gold, Jacob Bernard Docker.
The defenseman was the first overall pick for Ottawa in 2018. Since being drafted he played in over 100 games for Ottawa. He has amassed 20 points in his career. Last season he played in 72 games for the Senators.
He has shown a strong physical prescene on the ice and on the defensive end. He amassed 156 blocks a season ago. In comparison, the Rasmus Dahlin had 154 hits in 81 games last year leading the Sabres.
The defensive end for Buffalo has been in need of assistance and it seems that Docker could provide a spark at the end of the season. He's played in 25 games this season for Ottawa and does have a block in each game.
He would provide much needed depth and could be an option on even the second or third line for Buffalo. If they are able to provide Luukkonen and company some much needed assistance on defense, they could string together a strong March and April.
Docker's first career goal came in 2023 in a loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
He had four goals and 10 assists a year ago in his first full season in the league. He is also a restricted free agent entering the offseason. It will be important for Buffalo to see what he can provide if they are looking to tender his contract and resign him for next season.
He makes $805,000 a year and would be a modest resigning if Buffalo wanted to bring him back. If he can provide the depth they need, they could find more expensive options besides him.
Depth has been an issue for the Sabres this season, with the loss of Jordan Greenway hurting them physically and defensively throughout the year. If they are able to utilize Docker's skill set it may give them a much-needed boost in the final 20 games of the year.
Buffalo needs to play better as this month starts. They have not won yet in March. Each player is playing for their future with the organization and that includes the newest acquisitions. If a player like Docker can find his place and prove his value, it will be another hard decision for general manager Kevyn Adams to make this summer.