The Anaheim Ducks confirmed a trade that shipped defenseman Zellweger to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a second‑round selection in the 2023 NHL Draft. The move comes as the Ducks look to convert prospect assets into future flexibility, and it places a promising young blue‑liner into a Buffalo system that has been aggressive in recent weeks.
A career‑high season for Zellweger
Zellweger capped his most productive campaign with a career‑high 22 points across 76 regular‑season games, showcasing his growth as a two‑way defenseman. The 2021 second‑round pick is now set to become a restricted free agent on July 1, adding a layer of uncertainty to his long‑term fit with the Ducks.
Buffalo’s newest addition, forward Wahlberg, arrives after a strong showing in the American Hockey League. He logged 37 points in 68 games for the Rochester Americans, the Sabres’ affiliate, and was originally selected by Buffalo in the second round of the 2023 draft.
A busy week for the Sabres
The trade follows a hectic stretch for the Sabres, who just three days earlier moved defenseman Bowen Byram and forward Jordan Greenway to the Chicago Blackhawks. Earlier in the month, Buffalo also sent Alex Tuch to the Washington Capitals in a deal that brought forward David Kampf and a 2027 third‑round pick to the Sabres.
These moves illustrate a clear intent by Buffalo to reshape its roster ahead of the upcoming draft and free‑agency period. By adding a proven AHL scorer in Wahlberg and acquiring a draft asset for Zellweger, the Sabres are positioning themselves to deepen both their offensive and defensive cores.
For Anaheim, the transaction underscores a strategy of capitalizing on draft capital while the club evaluates its competitive timeline. The Ducks’ front office indicated that the acquired pick will be integrated into a broader scouting plan aimed at reinforcing the team’s pipeline of talent.