The Chicago Blackhawks have traded a 2026 sixth-round draft pick to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for winger Sam Lafferty. This move occurred just ahead of the free agency period, as the Blackhawks look to add depth and experience to their forward group. Lafferty is entering the final year of a two-year contract with a $2 million cap hit that he originally signed with Buffalo in 2024.
Reasons Behind the Trade for Both Teams
Buffalo agreed to the trade to free up a roster spot and create more salary cap flexibility. Lafferty’s performance with the Sabres did not meet expectations, recording only seven points (four goals, three assists) across 60 games, his lowest full-season output to date. These struggles indicated that he was not an ideal fit for Buffalo’s current lineup.
For the Blackhawks, Lafferty returns to familiar territory where he previously played parts of two seasons in 2021-22 and 2022-23. His last year with Chicago and a brief stint with Toronto saw improved production, scoring 12 goals and adding 15 assists for 32 points in 70 games combined, offering hope that he could provide valuable bottom-six scoring once again.
Additional Team Moves Ahead of Free Agency
Alongside acquiring Lafferty, the Blackhawks have also undergone several roster changes, including a buyout of defenseman T.J. Brodie and the acquisition of winger Andre Burakovsky from the Seattle Kraken as a salary cap dump. These maneuvers leave the Blackhawks with roughly $20.5 million in salary cap space heading into free agency.
The Sabres have been active as well, trading J.J. Peterka to the Utah Mammoth in exchange for Michael Kesselring and Josh Doan. They also moved Connor Clifton’s contract to the Pittsburgh Penguins, receiving Conor Timmins, Isaac Belliveau, and a second-round draft pick in return. These transactions have expanded Buffalo’s salary cap cushion to nearly $23 million as they reshape their roster.
Potential Impact on Both Teams Moving Forward
The return of Sam Lafferty to the Blackhawks could help the team regain a productive bottom-six player capable of contributing offensively. Buffalo’s decision to part ways with Lafferty and other players reflects their broader strategy of retooling with more cap flexibility and fresh talent. Both teams enter free agency with clear objectives and increased financial room to maneuver, setting the stage for further roster developments.