The Buffalo Sabres have secured former New York Rangers defenseman Zac Jones by signing him to a one-year, two-way contract valued at $900,000 for the NHL and $550,000 for the AHL. This deal offers Jones a fresh chance to establish himself within the Sabres organization as he aims to build on his previous NHL experience.
Performance and Career Overview of Zac Jones
This past season, Jones appeared in 46 NHL games, recording one goal and 10 assists, totaling 11 points—his highest professional output so far, surpassing the nine points he earned the year prior. Additionally, he scored during one of the two AHL matches he played with the Hartford Wolf Pack. Drafted 68th overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Jones quickly emerged as a strong prospect for the Rangers, flourishing during his two years at UMass before turning professional after his sophomore season in 2021.
Jones made an impactful NHL debut with four assists in 10 games and also contributed on the international stage with the USA World Championship team. Despite his promising start, consistency proved elusive, preventing him from securing a steady NHL role. Over his five NHL seasons, he has amassed 28 points in 115 games, while producing 67 points over 108 AHL contests.
Jones’ New Opportunity in Buffalo
Standing at 5-foot-11, Jones lacks the ideal NHL size for a defenseman but compensates with solid puck-handling abilities demonstrated in the AHL. The Sabres provide him with an opportunity to prove his NHL readiness by competing for a spot on Buffalo’s blue line, which remains open with at least one vacancy. Jones’ signing reflects Buffalo’s strategy to develop talent while managing cap space carefully.
Context of Sabres’ Current Roster Moves
The Sabres’ recent activity includes re-signing forward Ryan McLeod to a four-year contract, with the team still holding over $13.7 million in salary cap space. Discussions continue around potential trades involving defenseman Bowen Byram, and restricted free agents Conor Timmins and goaltender Devon Levi remain unsigned. These moves suggest ongoing adjustments as Buffalo seeks to finalize its roster ahead of the upcoming season.