Sabres Revamp Roster, Add Kesselring and Doan While Creating Space for Emerging Talent

The Buffalo Sabres were active in reshaping their roster this offseason, highlighted by the acquisition of defenseman Michael Kesselring and forward Josh Doan from the Utah Mammoth in exchange for JJ Peterka. Kesselring, who posted 29 points last season, adds a physical presence and a right-handed shot on the blue line, potentially pairing with Owen Power.

Doan, 23, brings a promising two-way game and is viewed as a player with significant upside. The team also added Conor Timmins in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins, who, along with prospect Isaac Belliveau, came at the cost of Connor Clifton and a 2025 second-round pick.

Key Departures Open Roster Spots for Rising Prospects to Make Immediate Impact

In goal, Buffalo signed veteran Alex Lyon to a two-year deal, solidifying the backup position behind Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Lyon’s experience (30 games, 2.81 GAA, .896 SV%) will be crucial. To add forward depth, the Sabres brought in Justin Danforth and Zac Jones. Danforth, a versatile 32-year-old, produced 21 points in 61 games for Columbus. Zac Jones, a 24-year-old defenseman, adds blue line depth with his 11 points in 46 games for the Rangers.

The most significant departure was JJ Peterka, who had a breakout season with 68 points, ranking among the Sabres’ top scorers. Defenseman Connor Clifton, who played mostly in a third-pair role, was also traded. Forward Sam Lafferty was moved to Chicago, and defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker left in free agency. These exits create openings in the lineup, especially at forward, where the Sabres are looking for internal replacements.

Buffalo has several prospects pushing for full-time NHL roles. Tyson Kozak showed promise in his 21-game stint, demonstrating defensive responsibility and scoring ability in a fourth-line center role. Isak Rosen, a 2021 first-round pick, led Rochester in goals and points and played eight NHL games. His offensive upside and playoff performance suggest he could break into the Sabres’ lineup soon.

Sabres Seek Scoring Boost While Banking on Youth, Power, and Internal Development

With Peterka gone, the Sabres are still in need of another scoring forward. A healthy Josh Norris—limited to just three games last season—could help fill that gap, while younger players like Jack Quinn and Jiri Kulich are expected to take a larger offensive role. The organization is also counting on its internal development pipeline, and General Manager Kevyn Adams remains open to additional moves if opportunities arise to strengthen the roster.

Tage Thompson remains a cornerstone, leading the NHL in 5-on-5 goals and 100+ mph shot attempts. Kesselring also brings elite shot power, ranking third in top shot speed among all players last season. In fantasy hockey, the trade of Peterka opens opportunities for players like Quinn and Doan.

Quinn, in particular, ended the season strong and could be a sleeper pick. Buffalo’s projected lineup mixes veteran presence and youth, signaling a balanced, competitive approach for the coming season.