Insider Reveals Numbers for Sabres' Zach Benson Extension

The Buffalo Sabres have some work to do this offseason. It already began with the trading of Michael Kesselring, but there are more issues they face, both on the blueline and up front. 

While the Alex Tuch pending unrestricted free agency is the biggest-money deal that could be involved, young forward Zach Benson has earned himself a pretty penny on a new contract as well.

Word today from insider Kevin Weekes is that the Sabres and the RFA forward are nearing a seven-year deal that should pay him just north of a $7 million AAV. 

👀 Per sources, I’m told the @BuffaloSabres are working away on
a new Contract Extension for F Benson
coming off a solid regular season and big
playoffs, that could land in 7Yr x 7M+ AAV
comparable to their deal with Doan.#HockeyX pic.twitter.com/IhpXP0IK2n

— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) June 19, 2026

Zach Benson soared to national prominence with his gritty playoff performance  

The 21-year-old former first-round pick emerged as a dominant two-way force this season for the Sabres, and stepped it up even further with his impactful performance in the playoffs. He recorded five goals and four assists for nine points in 13 postseason games in over 17 minutes of average ice time. He made his presence felt with his "pest"-like play that often recalled comparisons to legendary "rat" Brad Marchand. 

The deal that Benson is looking at here would be in line with the similar extension that Buffalo gave to another breakthrough young forward earlier this year, in Josh Doan. He was signed to a seven-year deal with a $6.95M AAV. That kicks in next season. 

Benson, the 13th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, posted career bests with 13 goals and 43 points in the regular season, with an impressive plus/minus rating of +27, second-best on the team. 

This will be a nice piece of business for the Sabres to take care of when it crosses the finish line.