3 depth centers the Sabers should target in NHL free agency

Rumors have already shown us what Buffalo Sabers general manager Kevyn Adams might decide to do this summer, and the forward group could see not one but two new names. Today we’re talking more about a potential depth forward joining the team, most likely a center, and fortunately for the Sabres, there will be quite a few available in NHL free agency.

One name they could pursue is Adam Henrique, who was traded to the Edmonton Oilers in March as an interim depth scorer. Signing the experienced and productive Henrique would make total sense for Buffalo, but if the 34-year-old is looking to either stay in Edmonton or sign with a surefire contender next season, it will be difficult to land him.

But that’s okay because there are also some younger, solid depth centers that could be considered as potential long-term solutions, which wouldn’t be as feasible with Henrique. Let’s explore three other centers and why they would be a good fit for Buffalo for the 2024-25 season and beyond.

Initially, Elias Lindholm didn’t seem like a great fit for the Vancouver Canucks, or at least to the same extent that he seemed a great fit for his former team, the Calgary Flames. But in six playoff games as of May 8, Lindholm has two goals and an assist. He was physical and the 29-year-old showed himself in front of the shots.

It is increasingly safe to say that Lindholm has become stronger of late. While it might take him some time to get used to the system with his next team if he doesn’t stay in Vancouver, he will reward whoever signs him next. Additionally, even though his point total, 12 in 26 regular season games with the Canucks, didn’t look good, Lindholm still played like a true defensive forward.

And we know that’s something he could end up doing more of in Buffalo if it was cool to play most of his minutes on the third line. Tage Thompson and Dylan Cozens should get back on track and begin the season as the No. 1 and No. 2 centers, so with fewer minutes on the ice it would help Lindholm’s game thrive.

Putting him on a line with wingers Jordan Greenway and Zach Benson would also make for a solid, defense-oriented unit. And if he starts scoring again like he did with the Flames, Buffalo will gain an offensive advantage on that line as well.