The Boston Bruins have bolstered their defensive lineup by acquiring Henri Jokiharju from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick. Jokiharju, a 25-year-old defenseman, has shown promise this season with three goals and three assists in 42 games with the Sabres. With a total of 389 NHL games played and a career tally of 19 goals and 74 assists, he brings significant experience to the Bruins' blue line.

This move reflects the Bruins' strategic push as they aim for a strong playoff run. Jokiharju's ability to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive responsibilities could prove vital in high-stakes games. His previous experience with the Chicago Blackhawks adds depth and insight that could benefit the Bruins' existing defensive strategies.

The Buffalo Sabres made unexpected moves during the NHL Trade Deadline by re-signing Jason Zucker and Jordan Greenway to two-year extensions, showcasing their commitment to these players. In a major trade, they swapped Dylan Cozens and Dennis Gilbert for Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker from Ottawa, aiming to enhance their lineup. Lesser trades included sending Nicolas Aube-Kubel to the New York Rangers for Erik Brannstrom and Henri Jokiharju to the Boston Bruins for a 2026 fourth-round pick. Jokiharju's lack of development into a top-four defenseman resulted in his trade, following inconsistent play under head coach Lindy Ruff.

Finland has made significant adjustments to its lineup for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, welcoming defensemen Henri Jokiharju from the Buffalo Sabres and Urho Vaakanainen from the New York Rangers as replacements due to injuries suffered by Miro Heiskanen and Jani Hakanpaa. Coach Antti Pennanen expressed enthusiasm about the decision, highlighting both players’ motivation and experience. Heiskanen, expected to be a key player, was sidelined following a lower-body injury, leaving Finland without its top defenseman. Finland is scheduled to open the tournament against the U.S. on February 13, followed by matches against Sweden and Canada.

The Buffalo Sabres are set to take on the Washington Capitals tonight, aiming to halt a three-game losing streak. Facing the Capitals, the current leaders of the Eastern Conference, presents a formidable challenge for the Sabres.

In a shake-up of their lineup following the defeat against the Vegas Golden Knights, the Sabres have made notable changes. While the first line remains unchanged with Jason Zucker, Dylan Cozens, and Tage Thompson, the second line sees Ryan McLeod stepping up as the center, accompanied by wingers JJ Peterka and Alex Tuch. Additionally, the third line features Kulich as the center, with Zach Benson and Peyton Krebs on the wings, while Jack Quinn has been reassigned to the fourth line.

Defensively, Owen Power is paired with Connor Clifton in the second pairing, while Henri Jokiharju returns to play alongside Mattias Samuelsson on the third pairing. Dennis Gilbert will serve as the extra defenseman.

Following a disappointing 5-2 defeat to the Utah Hockey Club, Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff made significant changes to the team's line combinations during practice.

Peyton Krebs was elevated to the first line alongside Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch, while Zach Benson maintained his spot on the second line but with new linemates. The third line also saw a reshuffle, and the defensive pairings were adjusted, indicating a strategic response to the recent loss.