After the NHL Draft, free agency and other offseason moves, NHL.com is examining where each team stands in preparation for the 2020-21 regular season, which is targeted to start Jan. 1. Today, the Buffalo Sabres:
The Buffalo Sabres wanted to find a way to appease captain Jack Eichel, who said in May he was "frustrated" they had failed to qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs throughout his five seasons in the NHL. They are hoping the addition of Taylor Hall, the top forward available in free agency, will help them make the playoffs for the first time since 2010-11.
Sabres hope addition of Hall, Staal helps end nine-season playoff drought
Expect boost from infusion of offense, veteran leadership