Buffalo free agent can sign from Dallas

The Columbus Blue Jackets didn’t have any names that enticed the Buffalo Sabers to sign, so it was the Dallas Stars’ turn. Dallas is currently facing the Edmonton Oilers in the third round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They knocked off the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Vegas Golden Knights, in the first round and just dispatched the Colorado Avalanche.

When it comes to their unrestricted free agents, the Stars have some intriguing names. If this player is available for the Sabers to sign, Matt Duchene is the free agent I would love to steal from Dallas. For the record, I’m sure Duchene would love to stay with the Stars. But if it wants to see what else is out there, Buffalo should consider making an offer.

In 80 games played this season, the Stars forward scored 25 goals, collecting 40 assists for 65 points on the year. He was also +15 in 2023/2024, the best plus/minus of his career. Duchene is also having a good playoff run with two goals and four assists in 13 playoff games played.

Even at 33, Duchene still makes a difference. Just two years ago, he scored over 40 goals while a member of the Nashville Predators. Not only can he bring leadership and scoring to Buffalo, but he’s something general manager Kevyn Adams is looking for in the offseason. A reliable third-line center.

This season with the Stars, Matt has won 56.5% of the draws he has taken. Center is something the Sabers lack, especially with their depth. I don’t know if he would be on the third line, but he can still be very useful in Buffalo. With their top two centers being Dylan Cozens and Tage Thompson, adding a player like Duchene to the mix would be a good thing for the Sabres.

Next up, the Detroit Red Wings.