The Buffalo Sabres are at a critical juncture as they aim for a playoff berth, a feat they've not accomplished in nearly 15 years. With GM Kevyn Adams adding Conor Timmins, they now have six restricted free agents to manage within their $20 million cap space. The unresolved situation surrounding Bowen Byram poses a dilemma, as trading him could create further gaps in Buffalo’s lineup. Meanwhile, the team has bolstered its defense with recent acquisitions but still faces many challenges.

Adams and coach Lindy Ruff are both in the final year of their contracts, adding pressure to deliver results. A tentative lineup might feature Byram alongside Rasmus Dahlin, creating potential synergy on the blue line. The Sabres are hopeful they can retain Byram with two years of control, but time is of the essence to convince him Buffalo is the right place for his future.