Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram had a stellar breakout season, notching 31 assists and 38 points while averaging just over 22 minutes of ice time per game. As a pending RFA, he is expected to command a raise from his current $3.85 million salary. Byram expressed enthusiasm about his contract negotiations, highlighting the positive atmosphere in the Sabres locker room. The team faces tough decisions ahead, with multiple RFAs, including Devon Levi and Jack Quinn, needing to be re-signed. The Sabres may explore trading Byram to address other roster gaps, particularly if they aim for a long-term solution instead of a short-term fix.

Mattias Samuelsson, another Sabres defenseman, endured a challenging season marred by injuries but showed improvement towards the end. Despite a five-year contract at $4.286 million per season, questions linger about his future with the team. With the Sabres looking to shake up their roster, there's speculation about potential trades involving Samuelsson as they aim to improve moving into next season.

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.

In a series of updates from the NHL, several players are dealing with injuries and illnesses that could impact their teams. Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson was unable to play due to illness, while Buffalo Sabres forward Nicolas Aube-Kubel is questionable for today's game for the same reason. On a more positive note, Sabres defenseman Mattias Samuelsson is expected to be in the lineup.

Further updates include Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere, who missed a game due to an upper-body injury, and Dallas Stars coach Pete DeBoer, who expressed concern over Mason Marchment's injury, stating it is “not good” and more week-to-week. Minnesota Wild's Joel Eriksson Ek is on the verge of returning, while Kirill Kaprizov's situation remains uncertain as he is day-to-day.

In New York, Islanders forward Anthony Duclair and defenseman Ryan Pulock did not participate in an optional skate, while Rangers defenseman K’Andre Miller made a comeback after a six-game absence. The New Jersey Devils welcomed Curtis Lazar back after a knee issue, and the San Jose Sharks faced challenges as Carl Grundstrum left early in a game after a hit.

Seattle Kraken's Joey Daccord and Andre Burakovsky missed a recent game due to various ailments, with hopes of returning soon. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay Lightning's Michael Eyssimont is day-to-day, and Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube provided an update on Auston Matthews, indicating he is making progress but without a specific return date. Lastly, Vancouver Canucks' Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes missed a game, but their injuries are not believed to be serious, while Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin returned to action, although Lars Eller remains sidelined due to illness.

The Buffalo Sabres suffered a 3-1 defeat against the Boston Bruins, marking their 13th consecutive loss. Despite being competitive, a late-game goal by Morgan Geekie sealed their fate. The Sabres were unable to challenge the goal due to a lack of video review grounds, as the contact with goalie James Reimer was deemed incidental.

With the playoffs slipping away, the focus shifts to potential roster changes. Speculations arise about General Manager Kevyn Adams' future and possible trades, particularly with the Philadelphia Flyers, as the trade freeze comes to an end.

Matt Murray made a triumphant return to the NHL after a 629-day absence, leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 6-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. The goaltender expressed a mix of emotions as he celebrated his comeback, aided by a strong performance from his teammates, including goals from Auston Matthews and Max Pacioretty.

Murray's journey back included overcoming significant injuries and a full season out of play. His resilience was praised by teammates and coach Craig Berube, who noted the depth and experience he brings to the Leafs' goaltending situation.