What should the Buffalo Sabers do with the 11th overall pick?

In 12 days, the 2024 NHL Draft will take place from the Sphere in Las Vegas. Right now, the Buffalo Sabers are projected to be ranked 11th overall. Over the past few weeks, there has been debate among fans and the hockey world about what the team should do with this pick.

As you can see in the thread above, Elliotte Friedman is talking about the possibility of trading the pick. In this article, I will make the case for both exchanging choice and maintaining it. Here’s what general manager Kevyn Adams should do with the pick on both sides of the spectrum.

Let’s start with why they should keep the choice. Strengthening their defensive core could be an option if they choose to hold onto the 11th overall spot. With all the talent they have up front in the system, it’s possible the Sabers can hold their own with their pick. Last year, Buffalo held the 13th overall pick, which led them to select Zach Benson.

This was considered a steal for the Sabers and if Benson can build on his rookie year, what a benefit it was for Adams and Buffalo. Although the draft picks are hit or miss, the Sabers could get another steal if they stay at 11.

Now is the time to make the case for trading their selection. As the thread above shows, the Sabers could use their 11th overall pick to acquire a proven NHL player. In a poll I did on Twitter/X, I asked fans what Buffalo should do and it seems like trading him is the popular option.

Adams told everyone he was ready for Buffalo to take the next step as a franchise. If the Sabers trade the pick, they could very well land a solid player. With the current youth they have, these young players are also looking to take the next step.

With the addition of proven talent, this could very well help Buffalo take a step forward.