One of the Sabres' top trade targets is officially off the board.
Since the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, the Buffalo Sabres were one of the clubs connected to St. Louis Blues forward Pavel Buchnevich. That chatter carried over the offseason, but now the possibility of the Sabres landing Buchnevich is gone.
Buchnevich has signed a six-year contract extension with the Blues, with an $8 million AAV. This officially makes him a long-term part of the Blues' plans and no longer a trade candidate because of it.
Pavel Buchnevich
It is no secret that Buchnevich would have been a big addition to the Sabres' roster. They have yet to bring in a much-needed top-six winger this offseason, and they created a big hole in their lineup by buying out Jeff Skinner. Furthermore, most notable players who hit the free-agent market have found new homes. Thus, the Sabres will now need to explore other potential options in the trade market.
Buchnevich, 29, appeared in 80 games this past season with the Blues, recording 27 goals, 63 points, and a plus-3 rating. After another strong season, it makes sense that the Blues worked hard to get him extended. He is one of their most essential forwards and will continue to be for a long time with this new deal.
