The Buffalo Sabres are very likely going to be sellers at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, as their playoff hopes are rather low. Although this is the case, the Sabres also should be open to adding to their roster if it means bringing in a player who can help them past this season.
Montreal Canadiens defenseman David Savard is a clear example of a player who fits that description. The veteran defenseman has been picking up plenty of steam in the rumor mill over the last few months. The Habs are at least open to hearing offers for him, and the Sabres shouldn’t be afraid to pursue him.
Savard, 33, would provide the Sabres with a needed right-shot, top-four defenseman. Finding a reliable defensive partner to play with youngster Owen Power should be a major priority for the Sabres, and adding an experienced, hard-nosed defenseman like Savard would give them just that. Savard would also be a nice addition to their penalty kill.
Savard is under contract until the completion of the 2024-25 season, so he would be more than just a rental for the Sabres if acquired. With the team having a plethora of cap space to work with this offseason, they could take on his deal with ease. Along with that, he has zero trade protection, so he could not reject a move to Buffalo.