3 Buffalo Sabres Who Won't Be Back Next Season

The Buffalo Sabres exceeded expectations this season, but they'll be heading home for the summer with a sour taste in their mouths after losing Game 7 in overtime to their rival Montreal Canadiens.

It was great to see the Sabres relevant again and it's certainly better for hockey in general, so kudos to their management team for turning things around after years and years of disappointment under Kevyn Adams. There's some big decisions to make now heading into the offseason, one that includes the Sabres hosting the NHL Draft in June, and free agency looming with a number of Sabres up for contract renewals.

Here's three Sabres who won't be back next season:

Logan Stanley

The towering Stanley was traded by the Winnipeg Jets to the Sabres ahead of the deadline in March and while there were a few flashes of brilliance along the way, Stanley fell out of favor and was even scratched for multiple playoff games. With his size, speed, and a career offensive season, there's going to be plenty of interest come July 1, and expect to see Stanley sign a multi-year deal. Don't be surprised to see the San Jose Sharks come calling.

Beck Malenstyn

Malenstyn is going to become a free agent only July 1 and with his combination of speed and size, there's going to be a bidding war for his services, and don't expect the Sabres to pay up. Malenstyn averaged 10:30 of ice-time in 13 Stanley Cup Playoff games, which included playing a huge role on the penalty kill, while also landing a very impressive 42 hits. Don't be surprised to see the Toronto Maple Leafs come calling this summer.

Devon Levi

The Sabres goaltending held up to the postseason test this season, and with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen under contract through 2029 and Alex Lyon signed next season for just $1.5 million, Levi is quickly becoming the odd man out. The only way Levi doesn't get moved this offseason for somewhere with more playing time, is if the Edmonton Oilers make a huge pitch for Lyon, which could happen based on their trade interest in him throughout the year.