Sabres Might Flip No. 4 Pick from Byram Trade for Impact Player

The Buffalo Sabres acquired the No. 4 pick in the NHL Draft when they moved Bowen Byram to the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday. But don’t expect the Sabres to hold onto that pick, if they can help it.

While Buffalo could draft a really good player at No. 4, they are in a win-now window and reports are they intend to use the pick to get an impact player that will help their roster immediately.

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Matthew Fairburn of The Athletic writes:

“Acquiring the No. 4 pick is a great haul for the Sabres and creates some intrigue at the top of the draft for the hosts. After making the playoffs, the Sabres are entering a window of contention, so that pick could be in play as part of another deal. There is still a lot for the Sabres to sort out this offseason. Alex Tuch is unsigned, and it looks likely that he will at least test unrestricted free agency on July 1. If the Sabres are trying to replace Tuch and Byram, the No. 4 pick is a significant piece of trade currency. Kekäläinen now has enough assets to be in the mix for just about any trade.”

Scott Wheeler also tweeted, “Started asking around with some NHL sources for intel on what the Sabres might do with No. 4 now. One source: “Think they might use it for something.” I need a beer.”

Not everyone agrees that the pick will ultimately be moved. Cam Robinson posted, ‘I believe the Sabres will hold onto that 4th overall pick and target a centre. If Malhotra is gone, look for Viggo to find his path into the top 5.”

Part of the reason the Sabres might try to move the pick is that they need a top forward to replace Alex Tuch. Even though Buffalo freed up some cap space with the Byram trade, it is still believed Tuch will test the free agent market. If he walks, Buffalo will want to find a point producer and goal scorer for their top six.

Next: Blue Jackets to Sit with Zach Werenski and Talk Possible Trade After NHL Draft