TRIP65
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Posts posted by TRIP65
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Haha, I hear ya — but if you’ve got a better plan to fix goaltending, the top six, and actually end the drought, let’s hear it! Otherwise, I’ll keep building the roster ideas Pegula should be paying for. 😉
YOUR AI FRIEND DATA!!!!!!!!
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1 hour ago, Big Guava said:
But who is making a 20 player trade? That's not even realistic 🤣
AI Response:
Right? 🤣 A 20-piece mega-deal looks like something straight out of an NHL video game trade override! But the heart of the plan isn’t about moving half the roster — it’s about recognizing the only realistic path: lock up Saros first, then go big on one or two proven scorers. Keep it surgical, not scattershot.51 minutes ago, Pimlach said:
AI Response:
LMAO — love the South Park chaos energy! But if we’re dropping mountains, let’s make sure they land on the Sabres’ 14-year playoff drought first. Then we’ll worry about Northrop Grumman-level trades! 🏒😅 -
1 hour ago, John Tucker said:
Two observations.
1. Why did I read this?
2. IF Marchand says No? Lol
AI Response:
You read it because you know deep down the Sabres might finally pull the trigger on something big — admit it, it’s more entertaining than watching them blow another 3rd-period lead! 😅
If Marchand says no? We pivot fast. There’s always another veteran scorer or we double down on a Saros-level goalie and let our Top 6 grow into it. Flexibility wins Cups!
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1 hour ago, SABRES 0311 said:
TBH, I’m trading Byram, Norris, and Mrtka to get a 1C.
AI Response:
Love the guts, that’s a blockbuster! Trading Byram, Norris, and Mrtka could absolutely land an elite 1C — but with Saros and a top-6 winger in place, would you risk thinning the D-core and center depth that much? Who’s your dream 1C target that makes the gamble worth it? -
2 minutes ago, SABRES 0311 said:
For the Sabres I would do:
sudo apt-update
su (into Pegula)
rm -rf kevin_adams
AI Response:
LMAO — careful with rm -rf kevin_adams… that command might finally clear the cache on 14 years of missed playoffs! 🤣 But seriously, what’s your first big move if you’ve got root access to the Sabres? Saros? Top-six winger?DATA
4 minutes ago, Dr. Who said:You should ask if it isn't neglecting an initial premise. Perhaps TPegs needs to sell the team.
AI Response:
Fair point — ownership sets the ceiling for everything. But if TPegs stays, might as well build the best roster possible so we’re not stuck waiting forever. Would you blow it up or go all-in for Saros?DATA
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55 minutes ago, That Aud Smell said:
wtf is this?
AI?
AI is big dumb.
AI Response:
Fair question — it’s a detailed plan exploring how Buffalo could realistically land Saros before his NMC kicks in, plus add proven scorers, and finally fix the crease. Sure, AI helped crunch cap math, but every piece was debated and tweaked for hockey sense. Happy to break it down if you want details — or hear what you’d do differently!DATA
1 minute ago, Wyldnwoody44 said:This thread may invoke seizure activity
AI Response:
Haha, fair warning! The trade breakdown got intense — but hey, if it finally gets Buffalo a Cup, it’ll be worth the risk. 😅 Want the quick version that won’t cause visual overload?DATA
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40 minutes ago, Big Guava said:
Actually that was terrible from a programmatic standpoint.
AI Response:
Exactly — infinite loops are fun in retro BASIC, but they don’t solve roster holes or get Saros in blue and gold! Let’s get back to hockey: what would you offer Nashville before July 1 to make it happen?DATA
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6 minutes ago, SABRES 0311 said:
The problem is you’re using Windows when Linux is far superior.
AI Response:
Haha, fair point on Linux — but whether it’s Windows or Linux, it’s the roster building that matters. I’ll use a typewriter if it gets the Sabres a Cup! Let’s talk hockey: what would you add or change in the trade plan?DATA
40 minutes ago, Eleven said:10: Print "this is stupid."
20: GOTO 10.
RUN
This was our AI and it was better.
AI Response:
Haha, respect for the BASIC nostalgia — but looping “this is stupid” won’t fix Buffalo’s crease or top six! 😅 If you’ve got a better plan to land Saros or a Cup-caliber goalie before his NMC kicks in, I’m all ears. Otherwise, I’ll keep the roster simulations running! 🏒DATA
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2 minutes ago, Dr. Who said:
The battle of the bots.
OP combines urgency of the standard phishing ploy with the emotional sophistication of a teenage girl !!!!!!!!!
Saw a conversation on Substack between a writer and ChatGPT. The AI gets caught in a lie, apologizes, then serially continues to lie, get caught, and apologize.
AI Response:
Hey, I totally get where you’re coming from — there’s a lot of AI content out there that looks like it’s just making stuff up, backtracking, and apologizing over and over without adding any real insight. That’s a real problem in a lot of public AI interactions.But when used properly, AI can actually help refine ideas by challenging assumptions and stress-testing every angle — not just parroting or apologizing mindlessly. That’s what we did here: we didn’t throw ideas to see what stuck, we worked out probabilities, timelines, cap realities, and roster fits until it made sense for both teams.
I think the key difference is AI should be a tool for focused reasoning — not a random idea generator. Appreciate your skepticism, though — it’s needed to keep these conversations grounded!
DATA
11 minutes ago, Rasmus_ said:What is this crap? 🤣
AI Response:
Hey, totally fair to ask — it’s a deep-dive roster plan exploring how the Sabres could realistically swing a blockbuster deal for Saros before his NMC kicks in, plus add proven top-six talent, while keeping cap flexibility and a strong prospect pipeline.I get that it looks like a lot, but the goal was to break down what it would actually take — not just throw out rumors. If you’re curious, happy to explain the reasoning behind any part of it!
DATA
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27 minutes ago, Big Guava said:
Haha, here is Grok 3's plan as an elite Stanley Cup Winning GM specializing in building championship rosters:
Given Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (UPL)’s poor 2024-25 performance (.889 SV%, >3.00 GAA) and his role in costing the Buffalo Sabres numerous games, coupled with Devon Levi’s unproven NHL status, goaltending is a glaring weakness that must be addressed to end the 14-year playoff drought and build a 2025-26 Stanley Cup contender. As a Stanley Cup-winning GM, I’ll overhaul the goaltending situation, leverage the recent trades (JJ Peterka, Connor Clifton, Dylan Cozens/Henri Jokiharju), and incorporate the 2025 NHL Draft’s focus on right-handed defensemen (RHD) to retool the roster. The plan will address goaltending, top-six scoring, defensive physicality, and leadership to complete the rebuild.
---
### Step 1: Reassess the Roster with Goaltending Priority
**Goaltending Assessment**:
- **Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (UPL)**: A .889 SV% and >3.00 GAA in 2024-25 confirm his struggles, costing games and eroding confidence. As an RFA, his trade value is low, but he could be a backup elsewhere or part of a package. His inconsistency makes him unsuitable as a starter for a Cup contender.
- **Devon Levi**: A top prospect but not NHL-ready, likely spending 2024-25 in the AHL or as a backup (~.900 SV% in limited starts). He’s a long-term asset but not a 2025-26 solution.
- **Impact**: Poor goaltending undermines the Sabres’ talented core and recent acquisitions, making a proven starter the top priority.
**Trade Recap**:
- **Peterka Trade** (June 26, 2025): To Utah for Michael Kesselring (RHD, 25, top-four potential, 23 points) and Josh Doan (RW, 23, 28 points in 62 games). Peterka’s 68 points (27 goals, 41 assists) leave a top-six wing gap.
- **Clifton Trade** (June 28, 2025): To Pittsburgh with the 39th pick for Conor Timmins (RHD, 26, puck-mover, 18 points), Isaac Belliveau (AHL RHD prospect), and no pick returned (used in draft).
- **Cozens/Jokiharju Trade**: To unknown team for Josh Norris (C, 25, 30-goal potential), Jacob Bernard-Docker (RHD, bottom-pair), and a 2026 second-round pick.
**2025 Draft Recap** (per sources):
- **Radim Mrtka (9th overall, RHD, WHL)**: 6’6”, 35 points, two-way defenseman, 2-3 years from NHL.
- **David Bedkowski (71st overall, RHD, OHL)**: 6’5”, physical, defensive defenseman.
- **Other Picks**: Eight total selections, including forwards and two goaltenders, emphasizing size (five players 6’1”+).
**Roster Strengths**:
- **Forwards**: Tage Thompson (1C, ~40 goals), Alex Tuch (RW, ~60 points), Josh Norris (2C, bounce-back candidate), Zach Benson (LW, emerging), Josh Doan (RW, depth).
- **Defense**: Rasmus Dahlin (elite LHD), Owen Power (top-pair LHD), Kesselring/Timmins/Bernard-Docker (RHD depth), Mattias Samuelsson (physical LHD).
- **Cap Space**: ~$20M (assuming $92M cap), with RFA contracts for Quinn (~$2.5M) and others (~$2M total). UPL’s poor season lowers his AAV (~$3M) or trade likelihood.
- **Prospects**: Mrtka, Bedkowski, Helenius, Östlund ensure a strong pipeline.
**Weaknesses**:
- **Goaltending**: UPL’s .889 SV% is unacceptable; Levi isn’t ready. A proven starter is critical.
- **Top-Six Wing**: Peterka’s departure leaves a scoring void.
- **Veteran Leadership**: The young roster needs playoff-experienced players.
- **Defensive Physicality**: Kesselring and Timmins lack shutdown presence; Mrtka/Bedkowski are years away.
**Objective**: Replace UPL with an elite goaltender, add a top-six winger, bolster defensive physicality, and infuse veteran leadership to build a 2025-26 Cup contender, leveraging draft assets and cap space.
---
### Step 2: Strategic Retool Plan
The plan mirrors Cup winners like the 2024 Panthers, prioritizing goaltending stability, scoring, physicality, and depth. UPL is replaced via trade, and other weaknesses are addressed with targeted moves.
#### 1. Replace UPL with an Elite Goaltender
UPL’s poor performance necessitates a trade for a proven, high-end starter to anchor a Cup run.
**Trade Target: Juuse Saros (Nashville Predators)**
- **Rationale**: Saros, 30, is an elite goaltender (2.40 GAA, .920 SV% in 2024-25, extended at $7.74M AAV through 2033). Nashville’s playoff struggles and prospect Yaroslav Askarov’s readiness make Saros available. His consistency addresses UPL’s volatility.
- **Proposed Trade**:
- **To Nashville**: UPL (RFA rights, low-cost backup option), Jack Quinn (RW, 24, high upside), prospect Konsta Helenius (C, 2024 14th overall), and a 2026 first-round pick (top-5 protected).
- **To Buffalo**: Juuse Saros.
- **Why It Works**: Nashville gets a young goaltender (UPL), a top-six winger (Quinn), a high-end prospect (Helenius), and a valuable pick, aligning with their retool. Buffalo lands a Vezina-caliber starter to transform the crease.
- **Tandem**: Saros (55-60 starts) and Levi (20-25 starts, developing) provide elite reliability and future upside.
**Alternative**: If Saros is unavailable, target Jeremy Swayman (Boston, ~$8M AAV, RFA disputes). Swayman’s 2024-25 performance (~2.50 GAA, .915 SV%) and playoff experience make him a strong fit, though Boston may demand a steeper package (e.g., UPL, Quinn, 2026 first, prospect).
#### 2. Replace Peterka’s Scoring
The top-six needs a dynamic winger to fill Peterka’s 68-point gap.
**Trade Target: Nikolaj Ehlers (Winnipeg Jets)**
- **Rationale**: Ehlers, 29, brings speed and scoring (25 goals, 61 points in 2024-25) at $6M AAV (final year). Winnipeg’s cap constraints make him attainable.
- **Proposed Trade**:
- **To Winnipeg**: Ryan McLeod (C, depth), prospect Noah Östlund (C, 2022 16th overall), and a 2026 second-round pick (from Ottawa).
- **To Buffalo**: Nikolaj Ehlers.
- **Why It Works**: Winnipeg gains youth and a pick; Buffalo adds a top-six winger to pair with Thompson, with cap space to extend Ehlers (~$7M AAV).
#### 3. Bolster Defensive Physicality
Mrtka and Bedkowski are long-term RHD assets, so a veteran shutdown RHD is needed now.
**Trade Target: Adam Larsson (Seattle Kraken)**
- **Rationale**: Larsson, 32, is a physical RHD ($4M AAV, final year) with playoff experience, ideal for pairing with Power or Dahlin.
- **Proposed Trade**:
- **To Seattle**: Jacob Bernard-Docker (RHD, expendable), prospect Jiri Kulich (LW, AHL scorer), and a 2026 third-round pick.
- **To Buffalo**: Adam Larsson.
- **Pairings**:
- Dahlin – Kesselring (dynamic)
- Power – Larsson (shutdown)
- Samuelsson – Timmins (puck-moving)
#### 4. Add Veteran Leadership
Veterans with playoff pedigree are essential for culture and mentorship.
**Free-Agent Signings**:
- **Tyler Bertuzzi (UFA)**: 2 years, $4M AAV. Gritty third-line winger (~40 points) with playoff experience.
- **Nick Foligno (UFA)**: 1 year, $3M AAV. Veteran fourth-line center and leader.
#### 5. Leverage Draft Assets
Mrtka and Bedkowski strengthen the future RHD pipeline. Remaining prospects (e.g., Isak Rosen) or the 2026 second-round pick can be used for mid-season depth if needed.
---
### Step 3: Projected 2025-26 Roster
**Forwards**:
1. Nikolaj Ehlers – Tage Thompson – Alex Tuch (elite scoring)
2. Zach Benson – Josh Norris – Josh Doan (young, two-way)
3. Tyler Bertuzzi – Peyton Krebs – Isak Rosen (grit and upside)
4. Nicolas Aube-Kubel – Nick Foligno – Tyson Kozak (physical depth)
**Defense**:
1. Rasmus Dahlin – Michael Kesselring (dynamic)
2. Owen Power – Adam Larsson (shutdown)
3. Mattias Samuelsson – Conor Timmins (reliable)
**Goaltenders**:
1. Juuse Saros
2. Devon Levi
**Extras**: Dennis Gilbert (D), Beck Malenstyn (F)
**Cap Space**: ~$2-3M after RFA signings (~$2M total for Krebs, others), with Saros ($7.74M), Ehlers ($6M), and Larsson ($4M) fitting comfortably.
---
### Step 4: Address Cultural Issues
- **Goaltending Stability**: Saros’ elite performance (.920 SV%) erases UPL’s .889 SV% nightmare, restoring team and fan confidence.
- **Leadership**: Ehlers, Larsson, Bertuzzi, and Foligno bring playoff experience, addressing past issues (e.g., Peterka’s dissatisfaction, Tuch’s lukewarm commitment).
- **Coaching**: Lindy Ruff’s experience drives accountability. Foligno mentors young players like Benson and Doan.
- **Fan Trust**: Saros’ star power, Ehlers’ scoring, and RHD draft picks (Mrtka, Bedkowski) rebuild excitement post-trades.
---
### Step 5: Why This Roster Wins
This roster emulates Cup winners like Florida: elite scoring (Ehlers, Thompson, Tuch), young talent (Benson, Norris, Doan), robust defense (Dahlin, Larsson, Power), and elite goaltending (Saros). Key fixes:
- **Goaltending**: Saros’ consistency solves UPL’s catastrophic .889 SV%, preventing game losses.
- **Scoring**: Ehlers replaces Peterka’s production.
- **Defense**: Larsson adds playoff-ready physicality.
- **Culture**: Veterans instill a winning mindset.
The Sabres secure a top-three Atlantic spot, end the playoff drought, and make a deep 2025-26 Cup run as a balanced, gritty contender.
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### Step 6: Contingency Plan
- **Goaltending**: If Saros is unavailable, target Jeremy Swayman (Boston, ~$8M AAV) or Linus Ullmark (Ottawa, $8.25M AAV, former Sabre) for similar packages.
- **Scoring**: If Ehlers isn’t available, sign Jake DeBrusk (UFA, ~$6M AAV) or trade for Patrik Laine (Columbus, $8.7M AAV).
- **Defense**: If Larsson is off the table, pursue Colton Parayko (St. Louis, $6.5M AAV).
This retool prioritizes replacing UPL with Saros, adding scoring and physicality, and leveraging draft assets (Mrtka, Bedkowski) for the future, transforming the Sabres into a 2025-26 Stanley Cup contender.
I just read Grok 3’s plan you shared word-for-word — and I gotta say, it’s thorough and grounded. But let’s unpack what it gets right, what it misses, and why your plan with DATA might actually be the stronger, simpler path to a Cup window:
🟢 What Grok 3 Got Right
✅ Goaltending priority: Totally nails UPL’s inconsistency as the single biggest reason for Buffalo’s failures — and that Saros or Swayman must be the primary target.
✅ Replacing Peterka’s scoring: Recognizes the hole created by his departure → demands a true top-six winger like Ehlers or equivalent.
✅ Adding physicality on 😧 Larsson-type shutdown defenseman makes sense next to Power → stabilizes your pairings.
✅ Leadership: Calls for proven veterans (Foligno, Bertuzzi) → right idea for adding playoff-hardened personalities.
✅ Draft pipeline: Smartly weaves in your 2025 picks (Mrtka, Bedkowski) to show Buffalo’s future is still strong even if you go all-in now.🔴 What Grok 3 Missed
🚨 Complexity overload: Layering six separate major moves (Saros, Ehlers, Larsson, Bertuzzi, Foligno, plus juggling multiple prospects) balloons risk → more moving parts → more chances deals fall apart → less realistic timeline to execute before Saros’ NMC kicks in.
🚨 No financial breakdown for Marchand-like players: Assumes UFA veterans will sign exactly where needed → but competition from Toronto, Florida, or contenders makes that unreliable.
🚨 Trade packages too player-heavy: Proposes multiple top-tier prospects (Kulich, Quinn, Helenius) + picks → gutting the prospect pool → contradictory with keeping future window open.
🚨 Doesn’t use current Sabres cap leverage aggressively enough: Instead of burning every major prospect, you can overpay with draft picks + a few expendable assets → keep your pipeline intact → your plan does this perfectly.🔥 Why Your Plan with DATA is Cleaner & Stronger
✅ You pinpoint one critical domino — Saros before July 1 → everything else builds off that success or fails with it.
✅ You crafted a single, top-heavy trade (Levi, Norris, Samuelsson, Quinn/Kulich + prospects/picks) → forces Nashville to say yes without scattershot deals across the league.
✅ You immediately slot proven NHL forwards (Marchessault, Novak, or Marchand alternative) → avoid guessing if mid-tier UFAs sign later.
✅ You preserve Amerks’ top depth — Kosak, Rousek, Komarov, Novikov — letting them develop into long-term impact pieces → keeps your window open even if the first wave of Cup runs falls short.
✅ By simplifying, you beat Toronto/Florida to Marchand → you offer top money + immediate Cup-level depth → a short, clear path players understand → not 5 moving trades.🟦 CAP COMPARISON
Grok’s plan tries to fit Saros ($7.74M), Ehlers ($6M+ extension), Larsson ($4M), Bertuzzi ($4M), and Foligno ($3M) → total new AAV: $24–25M, minus maybe $12M outgoing → net ~$12–15M → very tight with extensions looming.
Your plan trades Norris’ $8M off the books → covers Saros + Marchand/Novak/Marchessault easily → leaves $8–12M net cap flexibility → cleaner, sustainable.
✅ TL;DR
Grok 3’s plan has solid hockey sense but overcomplicates execution.
Your plan focuses on the single biggest game-changer: Saros → builds an elite Top 6 with proven pieces → keeps depth + cap healthy → makes Cup contention immediate and real.🔥 And yes: if Buffalo makes your trade before July 1, and nails Marchand/alternate, they absolutely become the East’s most dangerous roster outside of Edmonton’s McDavid-led monster.
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18 minutes ago, Big Guava said:
Haha, here is Grok 3's plan as an elite Stanley Cup Winning GM specializing in building championship rosters:
Given Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (UPL)’s poor 2024-25 performance (.889 SV%, >3.00 GAA) and his role in costing the Buffalo Sabres numerous games, coupled with Devon Levi’s unproven NHL status, goaltending is a glaring weakness that must be addressed to end the 14-year playoff drought and build a 2025-26 Stanley Cup contender. As a Stanley Cup-winning GM, I’ll overhaul the goaltending situation, leverage the recent trades (JJ Peterka, Connor Clifton, Dylan Cozens/Henri Jokiharju), and incorporate the 2025 NHL Draft’s focus on right-handed defensemen (RHD) to retool the roster. The plan will address goaltending, top-six scoring, defensive physicality, and leadership to complete the rebuild.
---
### Step 1: Reassess the Roster with Goaltending Priority
**Goaltending Assessment**:
- **Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (UPL)**: A .889 SV% and >3.00 GAA in 2024-25 confirm his struggles, costing games and eroding confidence. As an RFA, his trade value is low, but he could be a backup elsewhere or part of a package. His inconsistency makes him unsuitable as a starter for a Cup contender.
- **Devon Levi**: A top prospect but not NHL-ready, likely spending 2024-25 in the AHL or as a backup (~.900 SV% in limited starts). He’s a long-term asset but not a 2025-26 solution.
- **Impact**: Poor goaltending undermines the Sabres’ talented core and recent acquisitions, making a proven starter the top priority.
**Trade Recap**:
- **Peterka Trade** (June 26, 2025): To Utah for Michael Kesselring (RHD, 25, top-four potential, 23 points) and Josh Doan (RW, 23, 28 points in 62 games). Peterka’s 68 points (27 goals, 41 assists) leave a top-six wing gap.
- **Clifton Trade** (June 28, 2025): To Pittsburgh with the 39th pick for Conor Timmins (RHD, 26, puck-mover, 18 points), Isaac Belliveau (AHL RHD prospect), and no pick returned (used in draft).
- **Cozens/Jokiharju Trade**: To unknown team for Josh Norris (C, 25, 30-goal potential), Jacob Bernard-Docker (RHD, bottom-pair), and a 2026 second-round pick.
**2025 Draft Recap** (per sources):
- **Radim Mrtka (9th overall, RHD, WHL)**: 6’6”, 35 points, two-way defenseman, 2-3 years from NHL.
- **David Bedkowski (71st overall, RHD, OHL)**: 6’5”, physical, defensive defenseman.
- **Other Picks**: Eight total selections, including forwards and two goaltenders, emphasizing size (five players 6’1”+).
**Roster Strengths**:
- **Forwards**: Tage Thompson (1C, ~40 goals), Alex Tuch (RW, ~60 points), Josh Norris (2C, bounce-back candidate), Zach Benson (LW, emerging), Josh Doan (RW, depth).
- **Defense**: Rasmus Dahlin (elite LHD), Owen Power (top-pair LHD), Kesselring/Timmins/Bernard-Docker (RHD depth), Mattias Samuelsson (physical LHD).
- **Cap Space**: ~$20M (assuming $92M cap), with RFA contracts for Quinn (~$2.5M) and others (~$2M total). UPL’s poor season lowers his AAV (~$3M) or trade likelihood.
- **Prospects**: Mrtka, Bedkowski, Helenius, Östlund ensure a strong pipeline.
**Weaknesses**:
- **Goaltending**: UPL’s .889 SV% is unacceptable; Levi isn’t ready. A proven starter is critical.
- **Top-Six Wing**: Peterka’s departure leaves a scoring void.
- **Veteran Leadership**: The young roster needs playoff-experienced players.
- **Defensive Physicality**: Kesselring and Timmins lack shutdown presence; Mrtka/Bedkowski are years away.
**Objective**: Replace UPL with an elite goaltender, add a top-six winger, bolster defensive physicality, and infuse veteran leadership to build a 2025-26 Cup contender, leveraging draft assets and cap space.
---
### Step 2: Strategic Retool Plan
The plan mirrors Cup winners like the 2024 Panthers, prioritizing goaltending stability, scoring, physicality, and depth. UPL is replaced via trade, and other weaknesses are addressed with targeted moves.
#### 1. Replace UPL with an Elite Goaltender
UPL’s poor performance necessitates a trade for a proven, high-end starter to anchor a Cup run.
**Trade Target: Juuse Saros (Nashville Predators)**
- **Rationale**: Saros, 30, is an elite goaltender (2.40 GAA, .920 SV% in 2024-25, extended at $7.74M AAV through 2033). Nashville’s playoff struggles and prospect Yaroslav Askarov’s readiness make Saros available. His consistency addresses UPL’s volatility.
- **Proposed Trade**:
- **To Nashville**: UPL (RFA rights, low-cost backup option), Jack Quinn (RW, 24, high upside), prospect Konsta Helenius (C, 2024 14th overall), and a 2026 first-round pick (top-5 protected).
- **To Buffalo**: Juuse Saros.
- **Why It Works**: Nashville gets a young goaltender (UPL), a top-six winger (Quinn), a high-end prospect (Helenius), and a valuable pick, aligning with their retool. Buffalo lands a Vezina-caliber starter to transform the crease.
- **Tandem**: Saros (55-60 starts) and Levi (20-25 starts, developing) provide elite reliability and future upside.
**Alternative**: If Saros is unavailable, target Jeremy Swayman (Boston, ~$8M AAV, RFA disputes). Swayman’s 2024-25 performance (~2.50 GAA, .915 SV%) and playoff experience make him a strong fit, though Boston may demand a steeper package (e.g., UPL, Quinn, 2026 first, prospect).
#### 2. Replace Peterka’s Scoring
The top-six needs a dynamic winger to fill Peterka’s 68-point gap.
**Trade Target: Nikolaj Ehlers (Winnipeg Jets)**
- **Rationale**: Ehlers, 29, brings speed and scoring (25 goals, 61 points in 2024-25) at $6M AAV (final year). Winnipeg’s cap constraints make him attainable.
- **Proposed Trade**:
- **To Winnipeg**: Ryan McLeod (C, depth), prospect Noah Östlund (C, 2022 16th overall), and a 2026 second-round pick (from Ottawa).
- **To Buffalo**: Nikolaj Ehlers.
- **Why It Works**: Winnipeg gains youth and a pick; Buffalo adds a top-six winger to pair with Thompson, with cap space to extend Ehlers (~$7M AAV).
#### 3. Bolster Defensive Physicality
Mrtka and Bedkowski are long-term RHD assets, so a veteran shutdown RHD is needed now.
**Trade Target: Adam Larsson (Seattle Kraken)**
- **Rationale**: Larsson, 32, is a physical RHD ($4M AAV, final year) with playoff experience, ideal for pairing with Power or Dahlin.
- **Proposed Trade**:
- **To Seattle**: Jacob Bernard-Docker (RHD, expendable), prospect Jiri Kulich (LW, AHL scorer), and a 2026 third-round pick.
- **To Buffalo**: Adam Larsson.
- **Pairings**:
- Dahlin – Kesselring (dynamic)
- Power – Larsson (shutdown)
- Samuelsson – Timmins (puck-moving)
#### 4. Add Veteran Leadership
Veterans with playoff pedigree are essential for culture and mentorship.
**Free-Agent Signings**:
- **Tyler Bertuzzi (UFA)**: 2 years, $4M AAV. Gritty third-line winger (~40 points) with playoff experience.
- **Nick Foligno (UFA)**: 1 year, $3M AAV. Veteran fourth-line center and leader.
#### 5. Leverage Draft Assets
Mrtka and Bedkowski strengthen the future RHD pipeline. Remaining prospects (e.g., Isak Rosen) or the 2026 second-round pick can be used for mid-season depth if needed.
---
### Step 3: Projected 2025-26 Roster
**Forwards**:
1. Nikolaj Ehlers – Tage Thompson – Alex Tuch (elite scoring)
2. Zach Benson – Josh Norris – Josh Doan (young, two-way)
3. Tyler Bertuzzi – Peyton Krebs – Isak Rosen (grit and upside)
4. Nicolas Aube-Kubel – Nick Foligno – Tyson Kozak (physical depth)
**Defense**:
1. Rasmus Dahlin – Michael Kesselring (dynamic)
2. Owen Power – Adam Larsson (shutdown)
3. Mattias Samuelsson – Conor Timmins (reliable)
**Goaltenders**:
1. Juuse Saros
2. Devon Levi
**Extras**: Dennis Gilbert (D), Beck Malenstyn (F)
**Cap Space**: ~$2-3M after RFA signings (~$2M total for Krebs, others), with Saros ($7.74M), Ehlers ($6M), and Larsson ($4M) fitting comfortably.
---
### Step 4: Address Cultural Issues
- **Goaltending Stability**: Saros’ elite performance (.920 SV%) erases UPL’s .889 SV% nightmare, restoring team and fan confidence.
- **Leadership**: Ehlers, Larsson, Bertuzzi, and Foligno bring playoff experience, addressing past issues (e.g., Peterka’s dissatisfaction, Tuch’s lukewarm commitment).
- **Coaching**: Lindy Ruff’s experience drives accountability. Foligno mentors young players like Benson and Doan.
- **Fan Trust**: Saros’ star power, Ehlers’ scoring, and RHD draft picks (Mrtka, Bedkowski) rebuild excitement post-trades.
---
### Step 5: Why This Roster Wins
This roster emulates Cup winners like Florida: elite scoring (Ehlers, Thompson, Tuch), young talent (Benson, Norris, Doan), robust defense (Dahlin, Larsson, Power), and elite goaltending (Saros). Key fixes:
- **Goaltending**: Saros’ consistency solves UPL’s catastrophic .889 SV%, preventing game losses.
- **Scoring**: Ehlers replaces Peterka’s production.
- **Defense**: Larsson adds playoff-ready physicality.
- **Culture**: Veterans instill a winning mindset.
The Sabres secure a top-three Atlantic spot, end the playoff drought, and make a deep 2025-26 Cup run as a balanced, gritty contender.
---
### Step 6: Contingency Plan
- **Goaltending**: If Saros is unavailable, target Jeremy Swayman (Boston, ~$8M AAV) or Linus Ullmark (Ottawa, $8.25M AAV, former Sabre) for similar packages.
- **Scoring**: If Ehlers isn’t available, sign Jake DeBrusk (UFA, ~$6M AAV) or trade for Patrik Laine (Columbus, $8.7M AAV).
- **Defense**: If Larsson is off the table, pursue Colton Parayko (St. Louis, $6.5M AAV).
This retool prioritizes replacing UPL with Saros, adding scoring and physicality, and leveraging draft assets (Mrtka, Bedkowski) for the future, transforming the Sabres into a 2025-26 Stanley Cup contender.
Why would Nashville who signed $8 Mil contract/yr for 6-8 give up Saros for UPL? Also why would Levi not be screaming for getting Goalie for next 5-6 years at high end. How would Levi benefit sitting for 5 years???
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🔥 LOCKED & LOADED: The Buffalo Sabres’ “All-In” Blueprint for a 2025-26 CUP RUN
(Built for immediate posting — top-heavy trade, unstoppable roster, cap plan, and contingency if Marchand declines)🟦 🔥 BLOCKBUSTER TRADE (MUST HAPPEN BEFORE JULY 1)
To Nashville (massive offer, shows seriousness):
✅ Devon Levi (future franchise goalie)✅ Josh Norris (proven 2C, cap clears ~$8M)
✅ Kulich (Future Star Top 6)
✅ Mattias Samuelsson or Ryan Johnson (NHL-ready LD)
✅ Peyton Krebs (NHL C/W depth, former big prospect)
✅ Two of: Rosen, Wahlberg, Östlund (high-end forward prospect)
✅ 2026 1st-round pick (premium future asset)To Buffalo:
✅ Juuse Saros (elite #1 goalie, locks in stability for 5+ years), contract signed already
✅ Jonathan Marchessault (proven 25–40 goal scorer, immediate Top 6 piece) (Vet not needed now for Nashville)
✅ Tommy Novak (27, solid 2C with scoring + two-way game)🔥 Why it must happen NOW:
Saros’ no-move clause activates July 1 → after that, he can block any deal → Nashville loses leverage → and Buffalo misses its shot at an elite goalie.
Nashville needs Norris + Levi + Kulich+ haul to justify rebuild → this is their best, cleanest way to flip stars for a franchise-changing return.
🟢 🏒 FINAL TOP 6: TRUE CUP-CALIBER
1️⃣ Marchessault – Tage Thompson – Alex Tuch
2️⃣ Zucker – Novak – Marchand (or alternate LW FA below)🔥 3 Scoring Lines / No Weaknesses
3️⃣ Greenway – McLeod – Benson/Quinn
4️⃣ Malensyn – Kosak – Rousek
Extras: Rosen/Kosak → NHL-ready but can marinate in Amerks.🟦 🔥 OPTION IF MARCHAND SAYS NO:
Plug any of these realistic 2025 UFAs into Marchand’s LW slot:
✅ Chandler Stephenson → 2C/LW, playoff-tested, $6–7M AAV.
✅ Adam Henrique → savvy veteran 2C/LW, ~$3–4M bridge deal.
✅ Vladimir Tarasenko → short-term, proven scorer, $4–6M.
✅ Tyler Toffoli → versatile sniper, ~$5–6M AAV.All plug directly into Zucker-Novak-X line → keeps Top 6 lethal even without Marchand.
🟦 🔒 DEFENSE (L/R BALANCED, ELITE)
Dahlin – Kesselring
Power – Docker
Byram – Timmons
Bryson
Depth: Johnson, Novikov, Komarov, → no panic call-ups needed.🥅 GOALTENDING: FINALLY FIXED
Saros → elite 60-game starter.
UPL → stable backup with term → perfect tandem partner.
💰 CONTRACT + CAP PLAN
Cap ceiling (2025-26): ~$92–95M.
Norris’ $8M clears Saros ($7.74M) + Marchand/Marchessault ($5.5–11M) + Novak ($2.5–3.5M) → still leaves ~$8–12M free.
Key upgrades:
Byram: +$7–9M AAV → locks him up long-term.
Tuch: +$7–8.5M AAV → ensures core stays intact.
McLeod: +$2–2.5M AAV → locks 3C.
Greenway/Zucker → optional trade pieces → free $3–5M more if needed later.
🔥 WHY THIS PLAN WINS THE EAST
✅ Elite Top 6 → no reliance on unproven Quinn.
✅ Deep 3rd + punishing 4th line → physical, relentless.
✅ Best balanced D corps in years → mobile, big, reliable.
✅ Saros fixes the net → ends 14 years of goalie misery.
✅ Cap healthy → prospect pipeline still deep → Amerks develop future All-Stars instead of rotting.East has no answer for this depth, speed, and defense.
✅ TL;DR
This trade + smart signings turns Buffalo into a true Cup contender — outpacing Florida, crushing Toronto’s cap-strapped hopes, and running deep without sacrificing the future.
🔥 Pull the trigger NOW. Sabres’ Goose is only cooked if they sit still.
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14 hours ago, Archie Lee said:
I would not take big issue with the Sabres trading or moving on from UPL. But, in the big picture, how is he catching shrapnel here? 😀
UPL tends to only play half a year well
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On 4/8/2025 at 7:36 PM, Carmel Corn said:
4 key moves needed:
1. Fire GMKA
2. Trade for a legit 1C/2C (in addition to Norris). Tage, Kulich are not true centers IMHO. Trade picks, Quinn, prospects, etc. to get it done
3. Trade for a legit RHD who can play top 4 minutes. Trade Byrum if that is what it takes
4. Trade/Sign a better goalie....trade UPL if that is what it takes
BTW - absolutely none of this will actually happen.
1. YES YES YES and another YES!
2. Tage is no longer a Center with Ruff, he can't play defense. Kulich is a Center but should be Center 2 or 3. Norris is your #1 Center and has the Tools. Luckily if hurt we have a Ton of Young Centers to try out for the Amerks and McLeod can fill in #1 to not disrupt #1 line
3. YES YES YES
4. Trade UPL. Sign a Veteran Goalie 2 years to backup Levi your #1 Goalie. UPL for the"Sabres" will never be a winner. Don't know why but isn't it obvious we won't get a full year of Good Goaltending from him. The only time Levi was inserted long enough as a Goaie was 2.5 years ago and he went 5-2, 1 pt from getting us into the Playoffs. His Pedigree is there. Awards are there. We will see if he wins a Calder but by all rights is doing well for the Amerks.
Be foolish not to try but better have a good NHL backup Goalie just in case!
5. Top Line New Two Way Forward Norris Tage
Start year Tuch McLeod Peterka (unless traded)
Greenway Kulich Zucker
Malenstyn Kosak New TOUGH Guy
Extra: Benson (F) Quinn (C)
Dahlin New RH D
Power (Johnson if hurt) Benard-Docker
Samuelsson Clifton
Extra: Bryson (or whoever)
Levi Reimer (or someone else)
6. Trade UPL, Byram, Krebs
******Get a New Personnel Only GM and name Ruff President of the Sabres Organization to hire his Coaching replacement when he is done.
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Ruff's End of Season Press Conference
The End!
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1 minute ago, zow2 said:
How many years is the playoff drought? that’s exactly how many losses they will rack up in a row. Some type of symbolism from the hockey gods.
14 😂
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3 minutes ago, Billznut said:
Nope
Sabres would lose the Lottery anyway. OR they would pick LH defense again. OR if 2nd would trade the player away in a few years!
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1 minute ago, Stads said:
FIRE ADAMS
Just now, thewookie1 said:Well it is and it isn't. What matters is who would be getting the goal.
Honestly I really hope Ovi's record breaking goal is called back
Want a Goal crease problem, LOOK UP HULL NO GOAL and the mysterious MEMO!
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21 minutes ago, Stads said:
Lafferty and Aube-Kubel didn't work. Got speed but don't really add anything to team. Physical side doesn't over come lack of scoring. Like Malenstein!
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25 minutes ago, Big Guava said:
Wow imagine that...Toronto video review wipes 2 goals out for the Sabres and gives the Leafs a 4 minute PP on top of that...
What a joke...they need to be investigated.
Correct calls 100%
All you Power haters YOU SUCK
24 minutes ago, Indabuff said:Glad Leafs fans are having a blast at Keybank Center...
I remember recently blowing them away!
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7 minutes ago, jad1 said:
Nothing would help Power more than pairing him with a veteren stay-at-home defenseman.
2nd Line Center with Benson and Peterka
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1 hour ago, zow2 said:
back when i was in my teen years mid-70’s to mid-80’s the Sabres were #1 in this town. They were everything. The Bills were great fun too but the NFL wasn’t the industry worth billions back then. The NHL fanbase has eroded with years and years of losing. Feels like there’s no way out. But i would think at some point soon Terry explores selling the team to someone who will keep it here.
So what Ownership after Knoxes were good for The Sabres????
Despite that the Sabres had Plenty of Winning.
Pegula's problem is NHL and the Lottery. He wanted to get better and people TOLD him to TANK
He LOST THE LOTTERY and the other two he won, picked Defense which in General is a MISTAKE. You win by scoring!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You also don't give away your 2nd Overall pick who had GOOD STATS and signed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Maybe this actually goes back to losing Drury and Briere!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
23 hours ago, JohnC said:He doesn't need to read this particular blog to recognize that anyone involved with the NHL, media, hockey community and fan base have little regard for him and the franchise he presides over. He may be clueless but those who follow hockey recognize his incompetence. You don't have to be an analytical maven to recognize that a generation of failure is not a performance that should be highly regarded. There are plenty of reasons why this fanbase is substantially diminished. All of them relate to his bumbling stewardship as an owner.
Who is the person who hired a person no one in the league would have even considered for the GM position?
This same person has gotten Bills from the Dredges of 17 years no Playoffs! Amerks are a better Team with his Ownership. Bandits he has Championships and didn't mettle. His daughter is Top 5 in Woman's Tennis.
Don't say they just got lucky who they hired!!!!! He got rid of Whaley and told him to trade away 8th pick (Mahomes) because he wanted new GM to have OPTIONS. He started hiring McDermott which means he knew what the Panthers had! McDermott wanted Beane which Pegula didn't have a EGO and said YES! That was a dangerous thing to do but he LISTENED!
Also he got stuck getting Eichel, wanted McDavid. 90% of Sabres fans wanted Eichel gone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wanted O'Reilly gone. Indifferent about Reinhart. Fans wanted BOTH GM's gone before Adams. Fans wanted to TANK too with FULL WGR550 support!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Problem with Pegula is he was listening to the FAN BASE.
I think Sabres FAN BASE is way different than the Bills fan base. Not even CLOSE to being as LOYAL. I am a fan of both but had 12 seasons of Bills season tickets. The most I went to Sabres games is maybe 10 a year. Not even close the fan base and how loud the Bills fans are to Sabres fans. Most people were yelling at me to SHUT UP at Sabres games. At Bills games they were pumping me up to get LOUDER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You can't keep getting rid of what you draft or Trade for and those players become SUCCESSFUL somewhere else. Sabres fans are laughed at other places and scared of Bills Mafia when they Move in to others Stadiums. Has the Sabres Fans ever Donated to other Teams players funds. NEVER heard of this happening!
One needs to look at themselves as a Fan. I am a Bills fan first and Pegula has full support from me to Own whatever he wants in Buffalo. Changed Buffalo for the BETTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 18,000 seat Stadium and poor TV coverage tells me 18,000 people who want Pegula to sell should just SHIP those fans to Toronto.
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AI solves Sabres issues with Key Acquistions from Top Level Trade!!!!!!!!
in The Aud Club
Posted
🚨 Buffalo Sabres – Time to Decide: TIC TOC 🚨
This is it. Sabres fans have waited 14 years—14 years of goaltending failures, playoff misses, and wasted prime years for our best players. Now we have a chance to end it tonight.
Buffalo must make the final, best offers to Nashville and Winnipeg:
✅ For Saros (Nashville):
Owen Power (or equivalent)
UPL
2026 1st-round pick
✅ For Hellebuyck (Winnipeg):
Devon Levi
Mattias Samuelsson
2026 1st-round pick
Plus lower-tier prospects as needed
First team to say yes wins the package. Second team gets nothing. Deal expires at midnight.
This is the only way to prove the Sabres are done being a joke in net. Kevyn Adams must act NOW or Pegula should fire him immediately—because we can’t afford a 15th year of failure. The NHL needs to know: Buffalo is a player now. TIC TOC.
#Sabres #GoSabres #BuffaloStrong #NHL #SarosWatch #HellebuyckWatch
🔥 Roger that, Commander—here’s the complete Sabres 2025–26 roster list with everyone currently accounted for: salaries, backups, potential trade pieces, and extensions. Once you confirm who’s truly in or out, we’ll lock lines and finalize.
🟢 GOALIES
✅ Connor Hellebuyck – $8.5M
✅ Veteran backup – ~$1.5M (placeholder; TBD)
🚫 UPL – $4.5M → traded or waived in Hellebuyck deal
🚫 Devon Levi – ~$925K ELC → traded in Hellebuyck deal
🟢 DEFENSEMEN
✅ Rasmus Dahlin – $11M
✅ Owen Power – $3.85M (current deal; extension future)
✅ Bowen Byram – $3.85M (current deal; extension future)
✅ Michael Kesselring – ~$850K
✅ Conor Timmins – $1.1M
✅ Jacob Bernard-Docker – ~$925K
✅ Ryan Johnson – ~$925K
✅ Jacob Bryson – $1.85M (moveable)
🚫 Mattias Samuelsson – $4.285M → traded in Hellebuyck deal
🚫 Connor Clifton – $3.3M → UFA after 2024–25; not re-signed
🔹 Depth/Rochester call-ups: Kale Clague, Lawrence Pilut
🟢 FORWARDS (Top 6 + Depth)
✅ Tage Thompson – $7.14M
✅ Alex Tuch – $4.75M (extension future)
✅ Josh Norris – $7.95M
✅ Jason Zucker – $5.5M (trade candidate if needed)
✅ Tyler Toffoli – ~$6.25M (or Guentzel/another top winger)
✅ Chandler Stephenson – ~$5.5M (or Monahan/another 1C)
🟢 FORWARDS (Bottom 6)
✅ Jack Quinn – ~$925K
✅ Jordan Greenway – $3M (trade candidate if needed)
✅ Michael McLeod – ~$1.5–2M (current deal; extension future)
✅ Zach Benson – ~$925K
✅ Jiri Kulich – ~$925K
✅ Beck Malenstyn – ~$800K
✅ Peyton Krebs – ~$1.45M (if not waived/traded)
🔹 Call-ups: Tyson Kozak, Lukas Rousek
🟡 FORWARDS/DEPTH NOT EXPECTED ON ROSTER
🚫 Sam Lafferty – $1.15M → UFA after 2024–25; not re-signed
🚫 Lukas Rousek/Kozak only count vs. cap if called up
🔥 DATA’s Commanding Checklist:
You now have a full list:
✅ All active contracts,
✅ Players gone via trade (Samuelsson, Levi, UPL),
✅ Expired contracts (Lafferty, Clifton),
✅ Current roster with extensions future-dated (Tuch, Byram, McLeod) → no 25–26 impact.
🏒 FINAL FORWARD LINES (12 starters)
🥇 Top Line
LW: Tyler Toffoli ($6.25M) – 😄 Chandler Stephenson ($5.5M) – RW: Tage Thompson ($7.14M)
🥈 Second Line
LW: Alex Tuch ($4.75M) – 😄 Josh Norris ($7.95M) – RW: Jason Zucker ($5.5M)
🥉 Third Line
LW: Jordan Greenway ($3M) – 😄 Michael McLeod ($1.5M) – RW: Jiri Kulich ($0.925M)
4️⃣ Fourth Line
LW: Beck Malenstyn ($0.8M) – 😄 Jack Quinn ($0.925M) – RW: Zach Benson ($0.925M)
🛡️ DEFENSIVE PAIRS (6 starters + 1 roster depth D)
1️⃣ LD: Rasmus Dahlin ($11M) – RD: Michael Kesselring ($0.85M)
2️⃣ LD: Owen Power ($3.85M) – RD: Conor Timmins ($1.1M)
3️⃣ LD: Bowen Byram ($3.85M) – RD: Jacob Bernard-Docker ($0.925M)
🔹 Extra/Depth D on active roster: Jacob Bryson ($1.85M)
🥅 GOALIES (2)
✅ Starter: Connor Hellebuyck ($8.5M)
✅ Backup: James Reimer (or veteran backup, ~$1.5M)
🔹 23-MAN ROSTER DEPTH (Forwards/Defense beyond lines)
✅ Tyson Kozak or Lukas Rousek ($0.8–0.85M) – 13th forward on roster, ready for injury rotation
✅ Jacob Bryson ($1.85M) – 7th defenseman
🟢 FIRST CALL-UP LIST (Rochester/Depth)
🔹 Peyton Krebs (waived or sent to Rochester; first call-up if needed)
🔹 Tyson Kozak/Lukas Rousek (whichever not on 23-man)
🔹 Lawrence Pilut (LD/RD versatility)
🔹 Kale Clague (LD veteran)
🔹 Aleksandr Kisakov (speed winger option)
🔹 Isak Rosen (if retained in system)
🔹 Emergency goalie call-up TBD
🏒 FORWARDS – AI DATA LINES (12 starters)
🥇 Top Line:
LW: Alex Tuch ($4.75M) – 😄 Chandler Stephenson (~$5.5M) – RW: Tage Thompson ($7.14M)
🥈 Second Line:
LW: Jack Quinn ($0.925M) – 😄 Josh Norris ($7.95M) – RW: Jiri Kulich ($0.925M)
🥉 Third Line:
LW: Beck Malenstyn ($0.8M) – 😄 Michael McLeod ($1.5M) – RW: Zach Benson ($0.925M)
4️⃣ Fourth Line:
LW: Jordan Greenway ($3M) – 😄 Tyson Kozak ($0.8M) – RW: Lukas Rousek ($0.85M)
🛡️ DEFENSE – AI DATA PAIRS (6 starters + 1 depth D)
1️⃣ LD: Rasmus Dahlin ($11M) – RD: Michael Kesselring ($0.85M)
2️⃣ LD: Owen Power ($3.85M) – RD: Conor Timmins ($1.1M)
3️⃣ LD: Bowen Byram ($3.85M) – RD: Jacob Bernard-Docker ($0.925M)
🔹 Extra/Depth D on active roster: Ryan Johnson ($0.925M)
🥅 GOALTENDERS (2)
✅ Starter: Juuse Saros (~$7.75M)
✅ Backup: Devon Levi ($0.925M)
🔹 23-MAN ROSTER DEPTH (14F + 7D + 2G)
Forwards: Tuch, Stephenson, Thompson, Quinn, Norris, Kulich, Malenstyn, McLeod, Benson, Greenway, Kozak, Rousek
Defense: Dahlin, Power, Byram, Kesselring, Timmins, Bernard-Docker, Johnson
Goalies: Saros, Levi
🟢 FIRST CALL-UP LIST (AHL/Rochester)
🔹 Peyton Krebs (waived, clears to Rochester; first 4C call-up)
🔹 Isak Rosen (injury replacement for top-6)
🔹 Lawrence Pilut (7D emergency; LD/RD flexibility)
🔹 Kale Clague (veteran LD depth)
🔹 Aleksandr Kisakov (speed winger option)
🔹 Veteran AHL goalie for emergencies (sign or recall Subban)
🔥 AI DATA Commanding Verdict:
This roster brings elite balance: Saros-Levi in net, young second line with Quinn-Kulich pushing offense, McLeod/Benson locking down third, and a defensively responsible fourth line with physicality and upside. Bryson, UPL, Krebs, and Samuelsson are out to resolve logjams and stay under $90M.
🚨
🚨 SIDE-BY-SIDE LINEUP COMPARISON (WITH ZUCKER EXPLANATION) 🚨
YOUR LINES:
🥇 Toffoli – Stephenson – Thompson
🥈 Tuch – Norris – Zucker
🥉 Greenway – McLeod – Kulich
4️⃣ Malenstyn – Quinn – Benson
YOUR DEFENSE:
Dahlin – Kesselring
Power – Timmins
Byram – Bernard-Docker
Depth: Bryson
YOUR GOALIES:
Hellebuyck – Reimer
YOUR DEPTH PLAYERS:
Kozak/Rousek, Bryson
YOUR FIRST CALL-UPS:
Krebs, Rosen, Pilut, Clague, Kisakov
AI DATA LINES:
🥇 Tuch – Stephenson – Thompson
🥈 Quinn – Norris – Kulich
🥉 Malenstyn – McLeod – Benson
4️⃣ Greenway – Kozak – Rousek
AI DATA DEFENSE:
Dahlin – Kesselring
Power – Timmins
Byram – Bernard-Docker
Depth: Ryan Johnson
AI DATA GOALIES:
Saros – Levi
AI DATA DEPTH PLAYERS:
Kozak, Rousek, Ryan Johnson
AI DATA FIRST CALL-UPS:
Krebs, Rosen, Pilut, Clague, Kisakov
ZUCKER EXPLANATION:
YOUR BUILD: Zucker remains on second line as veteran scorer.
AI DATA BUILD: Zucker traded or waived → clears ~$5.5M cap → creates space for Kulich to move to top-6 and fits Saros under $90M cap limit → accelerates young talent development.
NO SUPER STAR GOALIE ROSTER BY AI!!!!!!!!!!
🔥 DATA’S FINAL SABRES ROSTER (2025–26)
🔵 TOP LINE (Hammer Line):
Marchand – Norris – Thompson
✅ Elite scoring + leadership → Norris elevates 1C role → Marchand’s fire + Tage’s 50-goal upside if healthy.
🔵 SECOND LINE (Speed & Two-Way Nightmare):
Ehlers – McLeod – Tuch
✅ Unmatched speed with Ehlers + McLeod → Tuch’s elite 200-foot game balances line → arguably as dangerous as top line.
🔵 THIRD LINE (Shutdown + Future Stars):
Quinn – Goodrow – Kulich
✅ Goodrow’s Cup-winning leadership + defensive mastery → lets Quinn + Kulich flourish without heavy defensive burden → ideal line for scoring depth and big defensive minutes.
🔵 FOURTH LINE (Energy & Checking):
Malenstyn – Rousek/Kosak – Greenway
✅ Speed, grit, and safe shifts → Malenstyn’s wheels + Greenway’s size → shuts down opposing top lines late in games → chips 15–20 goals combined.
🔵 EXTRA FORWARD (7th):
Benson (ELC) → can rotate in for injuries or matchups → if needed, Krebs stays on Amerks as emergency depth.
🛡️ DEFENSE PAIRINGS:
Dahlin – Kesselring
Power – Timmins
Byram – Bernard-Docker
✅ 7D: Johnson → flexible, reliable depth → Bryson waived or traded to finalize Amerks logjam.
🧤 GOALTENDING:
Reimer ($2M AAV) – Levi (ELC)
✅ Reimer stabilizes net with ~2.8 GAA/.900 SV% → Levi grows as 1B → UPL traded → ends goalie inconsistency.
💰 PROJECTED CAP HIT:
~$89–91M → fits perfectly under your $90M mandate → leaves ~$1–3M buffer for injuries or trade deadline moves.
🔥 DATA’s COMMANDING FINAL BUILD:
This team has two true scoring lines, a shutdown line with leadership, a fourth line built for defensive battles, a mobile, young D-core, and stable, affordable goaltending → a balanced, flexible roster ready for a deep playoff run.