Sabres Surprisingly Hold the 4th Overall Pick After Byram Trade
2026 NHL Draft – Buffalo, New York – Keybank Center
The Buffalo Sabres are used to having high draft picks after 14 years of no playoffs. It seems only fitting they have another despite winning the Atlantic Division Title this season. The Blue and Gold can make a high draft selection where there is some really strong talent. Right shot defenders Chase Reid and Keaton Verhoeff could both be available. Daxon Rudolph and Carson Carels are two other possibilities in a strong draft for defensemen.
Forwards Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg look to go first and second but center Caleb Malhotra is another option. That is, should the Sabres keep the pick. Buffalo is still in the market for a top-six forward after the departure of Alex Tuch. The team has also shown interest in adding a number one center. Either of those asks are likely to involve that pick.
The Sabres are also slated to select a player at 20th overall and it’s possible that selection is moved as well. It all depends of Jarmo and the interest in Buffalo’s positioning. GMJK has been wheeling and dealing though, I would be surprised if he came away with no more moves tonight. (Beyond the earlier deal today for Olen Zellweger – more on him tomorrow in my recap)
Enjoy the festivities tonight and let us all hope that our beloved team comes away winners, in draft picks or NHL players. There is little doubt the Sabres still need a top-six forward for this season. Maybe we get one tonight, tomorrow or later this summer, we shall see.
Please forgive the rushed nature of this article as I am a last minute fill-in.