Could The Buffalo Sabres Suddenly Become The Talk Of The East With Moves For Hellebuyck, Kane?
The Buffalo Sabres' summer has quietly become one of the more fascinating storylines in the NHL, and it's built almost entirely on two connected 'what ifs.'
After losing Alex Tuch to free agency and trading Bowen Byram to the Chicago Blackhawks, there was a feeling as though the Sabres could take a significant step back. That narrative could quickly shift if two rumors prove accurate.
The Sabres did well to acquire Olen Zellweger from the Anaheim Ducks, but their biggest moves may be coming. It is being reported that they are actively pursuing Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck in a trade, and - per Chris Chelios - they're also one of two finalists for free agent Patrick Kane.
Why The Buffalo Sabres Can't Give Up On Winnipeg Jets' Connor Hellebuyck
The Buffalo Sabres are reportedly still interested in trading for Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck. The Sabres had solid goaltending this past year, but the opportunity to acquire a superstar goalie is well worth pursuing.
Then there's Kane.
Chelios claims he was told by the veteran forward himself that it's down to Buffalo and Chicago, with Buffalo still viewed as the presumptive favorite thanks to the homecoming angle.
If that happens, it would add a top-six star to the roster on a bonus-heavy contract. He may not produce at the same level as Tuch, but it should be close and for a fraction of the cost.
Patrick Kane Facing Decision Between Two Homes
Hall-of-Fame defenseman Chelios says that the three-time Cup is deciding between Buffalo and Chicago
Individually, either move is notable. Together, they're a real identity shift. This is a team that snapped an extended playoff drought and reached the second round on the strength of a young core - adding a true No. 1 goaltender and a future Hall of Fame veteran winger in the same summer would be the clearest signal yet that ownership believes the team is a contender.
The catch is that neither deal is done. There's still a chance Hellebuyck stays in Winnipeg or goes elsewhere. Kane could jump to Chicago or rejoin the Detroit Red Wings with Steve Yzerman now out. Kane costs only money, but Winnipeg's asking price for Hellebuyck has already halted one attempt to trade for him.
But if it breaks Buffalo's way, the Sabres go from an interesting playoff team to a legitimate contender on paper.
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This story was originally published July 17, 2026 at 11:05 AM.