Connor Clifton has been traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Conor Timmins and a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The 30-year-old defenseman tallied 16 points this season (one goal, 15 assists) and has a year left on his contract worth $3.33 million annually. This move signals the Penguins' intent to bolster their defensive lineup, while the Sabres aim for future growth with Timmins, who has shown potential with 46 points in 159 games across different teams.

Timmins, a 26-year-old defenseman, is looking for a fresh start in Buffalo. He can become a restricted free agent next July. The Sabres also received Isaac Belliveau, a promising prospect, in this deal. Belliveau produced solid numbers in the AHL and ECHL, indicating potential for development. With the No. 39 pick in the draft, the Penguins selected 17-year-old Peyton Kettles, adding another piece to their future plans.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have made a strategic acquisition as they traded defensemen Isaac Belliveau and Conor Timmins to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Connor Clifton and a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

This deal highlights the Penguins' ongoing efforts to strengthen their defensive lineup, potentially positioning themselves for a deeper playoff run. The second-round pick allowed the Penguins to draft Peyton Kettles, a young defenseman who could add depth to their future roster. Clifton's experience and skill set may prove invaluable in bolstering both the defensive and offensive aspects of the game.

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.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to extend their winning streak to three games as they face the struggling Buffalo Sabres. After a recent victory over the Dallas Stars, the Maple Leafs have won four of their last five games, with standout performances from William Nylander and goaltender Joseph Woll.

The Sabres, on the other hand, are in dire straits, having lost 11 consecutive games, and are seeking to turn their fortunes around as they prepare for the matchup against Toronto.

The Buffalo Sabres have seen a dramatic decline, dropping from a playoff position to last in the Eastern Conference after suffering their 11th consecutive loss, this time against the Montreal Canadiens.

Despite a motivational meeting from owner Terry Pegula, the team struggled to find energy and execution on the ice. Players like Alex Tuch and Connor Clifton expressed frustration over the team's performance, while head coach Lindy Ruff acknowledged the need for improvement.

Patrik Laine's hat trick highlighted the Canadiens' victory, as Buffalo's defense faltered early in the game. With captain Rasmus Dahlin nearing a return, the Sabres remain hopeful about their playoff chances, emphasizing the need for individual accountability and team effort.