Sabres Rumors: 3 Potential Trade Targets Linked To Buffalo

The Buffalo Sabres are exploring the trade market for a top-six forward after dealing JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth, and Michael Augello of The Hockey News has identified three names to watch: Rickard Rakell, Bryan Rust, and Michael Bunting. 

GM Kevyn Adams has prospects, young NHL talent, and picks to leverage, but competition and trade protections could make getting any deal done that much harder.

A power-play goal for the Penguins... and two goals for Bryan Rust!

Rust now has an active five-game point streak against the Flyers (3G-5A). pic.twitter.com/sZD075r0Fz

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 25, 2024

Rakell and Rust Could Come at a Cost

The Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly open to moving veterans as GM Kyle Dubas looks to reshape his aging roster, making forwards Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust potential targets. Rakell, 32, is under contract at a manageable $5 million AAV for several more years but holds an eight-team no-trade clause that could include Buffalo. 

Acquiring Rakell or Rust would likely require a significant package, possibly centered around young talents like Zach Benson or Jack Quinn, plus additional prospects such as Isak Rosen or Noah Ostlund, or a protected first-round pick.

Rickard Rakell with a between-the-legs, one-touch pass to set up Marcus Pettersson's goal.

He's really been flexing his skill this preseason. pic.twitter.com/jLwstyetPH

— Danny Shirey (@DannyShireyPGH) October 7, 2023

Michael Bunting Fits Sabres’ Top-Six Needs

The Nashville Predators could also make Michael Bunting available. The 29-year-old winger is entering the final year of a $4.5 million deal and would bring energy and top-six experience to Buffalo’s lineup. 

Nashville GM Barry Trotz could be persuaded by a younger player like Isak Rosen or a mid-round draft pick. Bunting’s history as a consistent scorer and his physical edge would help fill the hole left by Peterka’s departure, making him an appealing option if the price is right.

Photo Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images