Buffalo Sabres
For years now, we’ve heard about the talented young core of the Buffalo Sabres and how they were ready to break out, and after a promising 2022-23 campaign, they once again took a step back last season. While Devon Levi is expected to be a key piece of their future, like all goaltenders, he needs plenty of time to grow, so what better opportunity than to play behind Jacob Markstrom for the final two years of his career as they look to break an NHL record 14 year playoff drought.
While the Sabres hold the No. 11 pick, the last thing they need is another talented prospect, as they would much prefer a veteran piece to help them moving forward. With a late round pick from Vancouver, the Sabres would have the chance to land another talented player, but if the Flames dangled Markstrom, the late first and another potential veteran like Andrew Mangiapane, it would be a no-brainer for both parties.