The Buffalo Sabres have several key decisions to make this summer. They need to address winger Jeff Skinner’s contract, decide on their approach to the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, and identify potential free agency targets.
One significant decision for general manager Kevyn Adams is whether to pursue an impactful trade. With a wealth of prospects and their first-round pick available, Adams has assets to leverage. One player on his radar should be Tanner Jeannot of the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Tanner Jeannot, a 26-year-old winger, was acquired by the Lightning at the 2023 trade deadline from the Nashville Predators. Known for his energetic middle-six role and willingness to fight, Jeannot isn’t an enforcer but knows when to step in.
The Sabres need players who can bolster the middle and bottom six of their lineup. Jeannot, despite a dip in production since joining Tampa Bay, offers offensive potential and physicality. In the 2021-22 season, he tallied 24 goals and 41 points for the Predators. While his output has decreased, getting 15 goals from him would still be valuable for Buffalo.
Jeannot’s physical style and hard work are assets the Sabres need. He’s known for his passion and willingness to fight, attributes that could help the team become tougher to play against and protect their stars.
In terms of trade value, the 11th overall pick is too high a price. Instead, a package including a 3rd-round pick and B-level prospects like Isak Rosen or Nikita Novikov might suffice. The Lightning, dealing with cap challenges, might be willing to trade Jeannot, who has one year left at $2.665 million.
Both the Sabres and Lightning have motivations for a deal. Buffalo has a deep prospect pool and needs to make the playoffs, while Tampa Bay needs to manage their cap and acquire draft capital.
Adding Jeannot could be beneficial for the Sabres if they avoid overpaying. His toughness and physicality would be valuable assets for the team next season.