Buffalo Sabres management faces a critical juncture as they grapple with player retention and a potential exodus. The Sabres have missed the playoffs for 14 consecutive years, prompting discussions about whether trading key players like Bowen Byram might prevent further unrest within the team. Analysts, including Bruce Boudreau, argue that trading one unhappy player could set a detrimental precedent, leading to a larger exodus.

On a more positive note, there are encouraging signs for the Sabres, as Alex Tuch is in talks for a long-term extension. With core players like Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin secured, the focus shifts towards building a cohesive and competitive roster instead of continuously reshaping the core. The Sabres must balance immediate improvements while fostering a stable environment that encourages player commitment.

The Utah Mammoth are in active discussions concerning RFA Jack McBain, with president Chris Armstrong emphasizing his importance to the team's future. The Mammoth view McBain as a key piece moving forward and are optimistic about finalizing a deal soon. Meanwhile, forward Logan Cooley is eligible for a contract extension as he enters the final year of his entry-level deal, and the organization believes he has the potential to become a future star.

Additionally, the Buffalo Sabres are navigating their own roster challenges. With around $12.8 million in cap space, they still need to sign RFAs Bowen Byram, Conor Timmins, and Devon Levi, the latter possibly starting the season in the AHL. The Sabres' GM is considering trading Byram for immediate help or better assets, while Alex Tuch's contract extension remains a high priority, potentially exceeding $8 million annually.

The NHL trade landscape is heating up with teams exploring options for potential player acquisitions. The Buffalo Sabres are holding tight to Alex Tuch, with reports stating that they will not move him unless a team overpays. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens are eyeing Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Nick Perbix, who is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. Perbix could serve as a replacement for the retired David Savard and allow prospects like David Reinbacher to develop in the AHL.

In other news, the Edmonton Oilers are rumored to be considering an offer sheet for St. Louis Blues goaltender Joel Hofer, who is currently stuck behind Jordan Binnington. This $4.6 million offer sheet would only cost the Oilers a second-round pick, which has been met with a strong response from Blues GM Doug Armstrong, indicating they would match any offer. The Toronto Maple Leafs are also exploring free agency, with names like Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett on their radar as they look to bolster their roster for the next season.

The Buffalo Sabres dominated the Ottawa Senators 5-2 on Tuesday night, completing a season sweep with a commanding 17-5 goals differential. Despite their last-place standing in the Eastern Conference, the Sabres showed resilience, taking a 2-0 lead early in the first period. Alex Tuch opened the scoring with a tap-in before Rasmus Dahlin extended the lead. Tage Thompson's slick setup for JJ Peterka made it 3-0, and although the Senators managed to cut the lead to 3-1, the Sabres quickly answered with Peyton Krebs’ goal. Ryan McLeod sealed the win with a short-handed empty-netter.

The Senators faced a significant blow, missing captain Brady Tkachuk due to injury, which hampered their attack, particularly on the power play where they failed to convert on four attempts. Linus Ullmark made 17 saves for Buffalo, and James Reimer's 33 saves in goal contributed to the Sabres' victory. With the loss, the Senators now look to regroup as they prepare for upcoming games against the Tampa Bay Lightning.