Jeff Skinner signed a one-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers, Zemgus Girgensons inked a three-year contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning, and Victor Olofsson joined the Vegas Golden Knights for one year. Eric Robinson and Tyson Jost both secured one-year contracts with the Carolina Hurricanes. Additionally, coach Don Granato, who led the Sabres to a near-playoff finish, departed after three and a half seasons.
Jiri Kulich, Isak Rosen, and Lukas Rousek are the young talent vying to make an impact next season. Kulich led Rochester in goals, while Rosen tied for the team lead in points, and Rousek topped the team in playoff assists. The Sabres are counting on these prospects to step up and fill the void left by key departures.
Bounce-back seasons from players like Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, and Dylan Cozens are crucial for the Sabres. They also hope for a breakout year from JJ Peterka, who could potentially become a 30-goal scorer. General Manager Kevyn Adams expressed confidence in the team’s offensive talent but emphasized the need for sharper, more consistent play.
