Buffalo Sabres: 4 takeaways from Jason Botterill’s press conference
By Paul Taylor
4) Don’t expect many major moves in free agency
NHL free agency is often perceived as a good way to help a team improve quickly. The Sabres have been no different over the years.
In recent seasons, the most notable addition was Kyle Okposo, which was a massive coup at the time for the franchise. However, don’t expect a similar approach this summer.
More from Buffalo Sabres
- Buffalo Sabres and Victor Olofsson making progress on contract extension
- Buffalo Sabres still need goaltender help despite re-signing Anderson
- Buffalo Sabres: Time to close book on the Jack Eichel chapter
- Buffalo Sabres receiving interest in members of defensive core
- Buffalo Sabres focused on youth during another disastrous season
Botterill confirmed as much during his season-ending press conference. While the Sabres will be involved in free agency, they aren’t looking to spend big money again.
From Botterill’s perspective, he firmly believes you can’t just build a team through free agency. So what else will they do?
Well, we know the Sabres will aim to take advantage of their 31st-place finish, when it comes to the draft. Of course, how much of an advantage they will have, depends on the outcome of the lottery draft on April 28.
As per Hamilton, one of Botterill’s favorite approaches involves discovering undrafted college free agents. The most recent example of this is Andrew Oglevie, who was signed to a three-year, entry-level contract on Wednesday.
Overall, there’s no denying this was a disastrous season for the Buffalo Sabres. And yet, we believe if the fan base can hang in there just a little longer, better days are ahead in the not too-distant future.
Next: Criticism of Ryan O'Reilly unwarranted
What was your opinion of Botterill’s season-ending press conference? Is there anything in particular you agree or disagree with? How optimistic are you for next season with the Buffalo Sabres? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.