A Strategic Move for Buffalo
The Sabres announced a trade that brings Olen Zellweger to Buffalo from the Anaheim Ducks, sending the 45th overall selection in the upcoming draft and forward prospect Anton Wahlberg the other way. The deal was confirmed early on draft day and marks the latest in a series of roster adjustments for the franchise.
Zellweger, a 23‑year‑old restricted free agent who will turn 23 later this year, is expected to add depth to the Sabres' blue line. General manager Kevyn Adams highlighted the player's defensive reliability and offensive upside as key reasons for the acquisition.
The moves do not stop with the Zellweger trade. Earlier in the week the Sabres dealt Bowen Byram to Chicago, and they also moved forwards Jordan Greenway and Alex Tuch. At the same time, the club re‑signed forward Zach Benson to a seven‑year contract, locking in a key young talent through the next decade.
All of this activity unfolds against the backdrop of the NHL draft being held in Buffalo. The Sabres hold the fourth and twentieth picks in the first round, with rounds two through seven scheduled for Saturday. The draft will showcase a deep pool of talent that the team hopes to complement with the newly acquired defenseman.