Could Quinton Byfield be an option?

A huge consensus is that the Buffalo Sabers need to improve at center. Multiple reports indicate that they are, in particular, looking for a third-line option for Tage Thompson and Dylan Cozens. One player they may want to make a move on is Quinton Byfield.

As a member of the Los Angeles Kings last season, Byfield scored 20 goals and 35 assists this season. Only Thompson scored more goals in the post for Buffalo and no one on the roster had more assists. Byfield had a +/- of +19 for the season total. Peyton Krebs was the only Saber to test positive.

Byfield was selected second overall in the 2020 NHL Draft and has been a sensation since entering the league. He may be a high-profile player to acquire, but Buffalo needs more prolific scorers and provides more help for Thompson at center.

The main issue for the Sabers is that Byfield is a restricted free agent entering the offseason. If Buffalo offers him a contract and he chooses to sign, the Kings will have the right to match the offer. It could also be possible that if Byfield signs a bridge contract with the Kings this offseason, as opposed to a long-term deal, Buffalo could easily consider him next year as an unrestricted free agent or trade option.

Los Angeles lost to the Edmonton Oilers 4-1 in the Stanley Cup Final in the first round of the playoffs this year. But finding players with playoff experience will be vital for a Buffalo team looking to end a 13-year playoff drought.

In the five postseason games, Byfield had four assists in the series. He also won three of the four faceoffs he faced in the five games. A tough, promising player can make a splash for Buffalo, but that might be what’s needed.