NHL Rumors: Sabres & Blackhawks Linked To Trade

Friday, August 29, 2025 ,
Chicago Blackhawks forward Tyler Bertuzzi reacts during 2024 game.

The Buffalo Sabres are still searching for a scoring forward with bite after dealing JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth earlier this summer. 

According to multiple reports, Chicago Blackhawks veteran Tyler Bertuzzi is emerging as a trade candidate who checks Buffalo’s boxes. Signed to a four-year, $22 million deal, the 30-year-old winger combines grit, playoff-style toughness, and enough offensive skill to slot into the Sabres’ middle six immediately.

Why Bertuzzi Fits Buffalo’s Needs

Buffalo’s front office knows they lack a physical presence in their forward group, something that has been missing during their 14-year playoff drought. Bertuzzi, who tallied 46 points in 82 games last season, thrives in the dirty areas and brings a relentless edge. 

His track record across Detroit, Boston, Toronto, and now Chicago shows he can chip in on the power play and protect star linemates. For a Sabres roster that leans heavily on finesse, adding his style could balance the lineup.

The Potential Cost of a Trade

Chicago’s rebuild makes Bertuzzi movable, but the Blackhawks won’t part with him cheaply. Reported packages involve Buffalo dangling rookie center Noah Östlund, defense prospect Adam Kleber, and a 2026 second-round pick. 

While Zach Benson and Konsta Helenius are considered untouchable, Östlund may be the type of young piece Chicago demands. The complication? Bertuzzi owns a 10-team no-trade clause, meaning Buffalo would need to be a destination he’s willing to approve.

If Buffalo is in the playoff mix by midseason and Chicago continues its rebuild, Bertuzzi could be exactly the gritty reinforcement GM Kevyn Adams needs to finally try and push the Sabres back into contention.

Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

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