Could This Blue Jackets Star Be the Game-Changer Sabres Desperately Need?

You can almost feel the buzz in the air around Buffalo these days — the Sabres, sitting pretty at fourth in the Atlantic with a 27-17-5 record, are finally playing like a team that’s serious about ending that brutal 14-year playoff drought. It’s been a long dry spell, no doubt, and while the Eastern Conference race is nothing short of a nail-biter, this club could absolutely use a bit more firepower to tip the scales. That’s where Boone Jenner from the Blue Jackets comes into play. Talk about a savvy upgrade—Jenner’s versatility, leadership chops, and solid two-way play could be the secret sauce Buffalo needs to break through this season. If the trade buzz turns into a reality, expect some serious sparks flying on and off the ice. LEARN MORE.

The Buffalo Sabres are currently fourth in the Atlantic Division standings with a 27-17-5 record. With this, the Sabres have a real shot of finally breaking their 14-year playoff drought.

However, with the Eastern Conference playoff race being so tight, it would be wise for the Sabres to add to their roster to help their odds of making the post-season. When looking at trade candidates around the NHL who could be good fits, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Boone Jenner stands out in a big way.

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Jenner has been creating chatter in the rumor mill as a trade candidate, as he is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), and the Blue Jackets currently do not hold a playoff spot. If he is officially made available ahead of the deadline, the Sabres would be wise to make a big push for him.

If the Sabres brought in Jenner, they would be adding an impactful forward who plays both down the middle and on the wing. Furthermore, he would give the Sabres another good leader in their room, which could be excellent for a Buffalo club that is looking to take the next step.

Jenner is also in the middle of a strong season with the Blue Jackets. In 35 games on the year, the 2011 first-round pick has recorded eight goals, 17 assists, 25 points, and 79 hits. With numbers like these, he would be a solid addition to the Sabres’ top nine if acquired.

Jenner would also give the Sabres another player who works on both the power play and penalty kill, as he plays a solid two-way game.