BREAKING NEWS: The Buffalo Sabres May Sign the Final Three Free Agents

The Buffalo Sabres have not made many moves in free agency in 2024 because they have chosen to sign players in the bottom six and hope that their core forwards would enhance their game plan. Even if there are some grounds to think that plan would succeed, they still need to address a hole in their lineup. With some underappreciated forward talent still available, there are a few candidates that might fit the spot among the available free agents. While they continue to develop their young players and hope that they can contribute in upcoming season, the Sabres would be well to look to them as a temporary fix.
Max Pacioretty and LW
Max Pacioretty is the oldest player that will be suggested, but his age does not take away from his value to this club. He is 35 years old. The veteran goal scorer has struggled with injuries for the past few seasons, so he is undoubtedly not the same player he once was, but he still possesses the hockey IQ and playmaking skills that the Sabres need on their second-line left wing. He could use the space they would generate to be a scoring threat and make moves with the extra ice he would have if he was paired with Dylan Cozens and Jack Quinn on the left side.

Pacioretty brings more than just scoring stats to the table; he brings leadership qualities and a winning mentality. He was captain of the Montreal Canadiens for three seasons, and he had been a key member of the Vegas Golden Knights’ regular season and playoff efforts throughout his tenure with them. As he looks for a new team to join, Buffalo has a spot open in their top six, and if they are willing to bet on him while he bets on himself, the opportunity could be a great match for both parties. He gets to join a budding young team, and the Sabres fill the role that they are looking to shore up while he also mentors their young stars along the way. Even if he ends up as a third-line scoring option, it would be worth having him on the team.