According to the DFO Podcast with Dimitri Filipovic, the Sabres have reportedly targeted a major sought after star as part of a potential plan to facilitate an top stars trade. This wouldn’t be surprising, given that Buffalo attempted to acquire him at the trade deadline, though Vancouver was not interested in a deal centered around Dylan Cozens.
The Sabres acquired top star from the Senators, bringing in a more experienced player who signed a sizable contract at the start of the 2022-23 season. Norris is currently on an eight-year, $63 million deal, carrying an annual cap hit of $7.95 million.
If he does end up in Buffalo, Vancouver will need to replace his contract, which is where top stars and his value come into play. He signed an eight-year, $92 million contract at the beginning of the season, with an annual cap hit of $11.6 million.
Buffalo appears willing to take on the additional cap space to acquire a player of his caliber, despite his down year. In the 2022-23 season, he posted an impressive 102 points, including 39 goals, followed by 89 points and 34 goals last year. However, this season, his production has dipped significantly, with just 37 points and a plus-minus of -13.
Why has Pettersson’s production fallen off?
Some might attribute it to a “big contract hangover,” as it’s common for athletes across all sports to experience a dip in performance after signing a major deal. However, I believe the bigger factor is the difference in talent surrounding Pettersson this season compared to the last two years.
Last season, Vancouver had six All-Stars, including Pettersson. But where are they now? Elias Lindholm departed in free agency to join the Boston Bruins. Quinn Hughes has missed most of the season due to injury. J.T. Miller was dealt to the Rangers at the Trade Deadline. Brock Boeser has struggled as well, posting a minus-22 rating, and the Canucks have no plans to re-sign him.
Starting goaltender Thatcher Demko is also on Injured Reserve, though his absence doesn’t directly impact Pettersson as much.
Line 1 Combination
If Kevyn Adams re-signs JJ Peterka, the Sabres could assemble one of the most dynamic lines in hockey. A trio of Peterka, Pettersson, and Tage Thompson has the potential to transform Buffalo into a legitimate contender.
Pettersson thrives in high-powered offenses, using his ability to force turnovers and capitalize on scoring chances to establish himself as one of the league’s premier centers. Scoring has been a strength for the Sabres this season, and pairing him with this talented group—alongside elite defensemen Rasmus Dahlin and Bowen Byram—could elevate the team even further.
If Adams is serious about reshaping the Sabres’ future, this could be the move that pushes them over the top.