As the offseason progresses, fantasy hockey managers worldwide are closely monitoring each team to identify late-round draft values, especially from teams that struggled in 2023-24. Although some Buffalo Sabres players saw a decline in their fantasy value last season, they aim to regain their standing as the team climbs the NHL rankings in 2024-25. Additionally, several underrated players who emerged as solid options last season are expected to rise in the fantasy ranks.
NHL.com’s recent release of the top 200 fantasy players for 2024-25 includes several Sabres with high potential: Rasmus Dahlin at No. 46, Tage Thompson at No. 69, Alex Tuch at No. 109, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen at No. 131, and JJ Peterka at No. 178. These players were the top point scorers for the Sabres, making their fantasy value evident. However, looking deeper into the lineup, there are other players with significant fantasy potential based on their position, skill, and ice time. These players can offer fantasy managers valuable contributions throughout the season.
Jack Quinn, Right Wing
Despite recent injury troubles, Jack Quinn could have a breakout season if he stays healthy, benefiting both himself and any fantasy GM who drafts him. Quinn is a reliable scoring threat; last season, he demonstrated his prowess with nine goals and 19 points in just 27 games. Once fully healthy, he resumed playing top-six minutes and consistently generated scoring opportunities for a lackluster Sabres offense. Although not known for his physicality, a new coach might alter his playing style, as Quinn has shown adaptability.
Under Lindy Ruff’s system, Quinn is expected to maintain a top-six role and be a key scoring threat, including on the power play. If he remains healthy, he could reach 30 goals and 60 points, and potentially even push for 40 goals. Likely overlooked until the later rounds of fantasy drafts due to uncertainty and his team’s reputation, Quinn is a gamble worth taking. Overshadowed by Peterka so far, his breakout is imminent, and he will perform at the level of a dependable top-six scorer. Quinn is one of the best under-the-radar assets the Sabres offer to fantasy hockey enthusiasts.
Bowen Byram, Defenseman
Acquired in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche for Casey Mittelstadt, Bowen Byram made a strong impression for the Sabres in his initial games. However, he struggled as Don Granato’s system took effect, leading to some poor habits and questionable defensive play. Despite this, Byram still has considerable potential and could be a valuable asset for fantasy managers. Concerns about his health remain, but his talent, youth, and expected ice time alongside Rasmus Dahlin suggest he could perform well in fantasy leagues.
Byram has proven to be an effective goal scorer from the defense position. With Dahlin being more of a playmaker, Byram is expected to benefit significantly. He should get power play time on the second unit, which enhances his fantasy value. Under Coach Ruff, Byram is likely to utilize his physicality more, leading to increased hit numbers. As a versatile defender in a top-four role, Byram is a solid mid-round draft pick. While some might hesitate due to his Buffalo association or injury history, a healthy Byram could offer substantial value for any fantasy team.
Connor Clifton, Defenseman
This selection offers a more specialized option for peripheral stats since Connor Clifton isn’t known for his offensive prowess. While he did contribute with four goals and 18 points over 79 games in 2023-24, his real fantasy value comes from his defensive and physical play. Fantasy managers often look for under-the-radar players to bolster their defense, and Clifton fits that role perfectly. He recorded 204 hits and blocked 117 shots last season on a team that struggled in these areas. With a new coaching strategy, those numbers are likely to improve.
Additionally, Clifton performs well on both ends of the ice, ending the season with a plus-12 rating. As a third-pairing defenseman known for his physicality, he’s a solid late-round pick for fantasy managers who need to boost their hits or blocks. Although his name might not attract much attention, it’s worth considering him if you’re in a competitive league with tight rosters. In such leagues, Clifton could be a valuable addition to the lower part of your defense.
Honorable Mentions
The Sabres have a few other players who could offer some valuable fantasy potential if circumstances work in their favor. For instance, Zach Benson might emerge as a significant contributor, but given the volatility of second-year players, it’s risky to rely on him too much at this point. Similarly, Mattias Samuelsson has the potential to be a valuable defensive asset due to his hits and blocks, but his lack of offensive production and incomplete NHL experience makes him a less reliable choice.
Ultimately, Quinn, Byram, and Clifton offer some of the most underrated value on the team, apart from the high-profile players like Dahlin, Thompson, and Luukkonen. The impact of the new coaching staff and system will be crucial in determining how these players perform. If I had to choose just one, I’d go with Quinn. His scoring potential provides significant upside, which can be a game-changer in any fantasy format.
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