Expected Buffalo | The Podcast

In this episode of the Expected Buffalo podcast, we introduce a new format for our show, moving away from the traditional offering name and style. We're excited to present shorter, quick-hitter episodes that offer concise insights and updates, ideally multiple times a week.Today, we focus on the recent eight-year contract Noah Ostlund signed with the Sabres, worth $6.6 million in average annual value. We discuss the contract's implications, including its bonus structure and no-trade clause, as well as Ostlund's performance metrics. Despite having played only 60 games last season, Ostlund showed promise as a two-way player, contributing significantly when on the ice. We acknowledge the potential risks, particularly regarding his injury history, but ultimately view this contract as a proactive and smart move for the Sabres' future.

In this episode of the Expected Buffalo podcast, I decided to take a break from discussing Connor Hellebuyck, despite the high interest in that topic. Instead, I focused on the upcoming season and the pressing question of how the team will replace Alex Tuch, who was a significant contributor last season with 33 goals and 66 points.With training camp just around the corner, I explored the current roster, noting that the team has largely retained its forward group, with the addition of younger players like Ostlubd, Helenius, and Kulich. I acknowledged Tuch's importance on and off the ice, emphasizing that his absence will be felt, particularly in leadership and scoring.I highlighted Jack Quinn as a key player who may step up to fill Tuch's role, discussing his potential for growth after a respectable season.Additionally, I touched on the importance of special teams, particularly the penalty kill, where Tuch's absence leaves a significant gap. I raised questions about who will take on those responsibilities and how the team will manage the minutes lost.Thank you for listening, and don't forget to check out our end-of-cottage-season sale!01:18 - Replacing Alex Tuck: Overview03:19 - Jack Quinn's Role and Expectations09:31 - The Kids Group: Kulich, Ostlund, and Helenius16:31 - Benson's Impact and Future19:44 - Special Teams and Penalty Kill Concerns23:20 - Committee Approach to Replacing Tuch

In this episode of the Expected Buffalo podcast, I dive into the latest developments surrounding Connor Hellebuyck and his trade request from the Winnipeg Jets. With training camp just a few weeks away, Hellebuyck has publicly acknowledged his desire to be moved, putting pressure on the Jets to act. I discuss the implications of this announcement, including the potential for a trade before camp opens, and reflect on how the Jets' offseason strategy may have led to this situation.I take listeners back to the NHL Draft, where the Sabres had a significant offer on the table involving their fourth overall pick, but ultimately, the deal did not materialize. As we move through the summer, I outline the challenges the Sabres face in acquiring Hellebuyck, including the need for a goaltender with term and the complexities of salary cap management.Throughout the episode, I explore various trade scenarios, potential players involved, and the competition from other teams like San Jose, New Jersey, and Carolina. I emphasize the importance of finding the right package that meets both the Sabres' and Jets' needs while navigating the intricacies of player contracts and no-trade clauses.01:00 - Hellebuyck's Trade Request02:30 - Winnipeg's Dilemma04:00 - Sabres' Interest in Hellebuyck05:30 - Draft Day Offers07:00 - July 1st Trade Talks08:30 - Current Trade Landscape09:30 - Goaltender Needs12:00 - Cap Space Challenges18:00 - Center Position Concerns21:00 - Evaluating Trade Packages24:00 - Competition for Hellebuyck

In this episode of Expected Buffalo, I return after a month-long break, feeling refreshed and ready to dive back into hockey discussions. I touch on the quiet state of the league, particularly after the 4th of July, and discuss some minor trades, including the Sabres' trade of Stiven Sardarian to the Carolina Hurricanes.I also highlight concerns regarding a few prospects in the Sabres' system, particularly focusing on Poltapov and Kleber.I finally present my article on Olen Zellweger, discussing his fit within the Sabres' system, his offensive upside, and the concerns surrounding his defensive play. I compare him to Crevier, emphasizing the need for a rotation among defensemen as we head into the season.As we look around the league, I mention the status of players like Dylan Larkin and Connor Hellebuyck, who remain with their respective teams despite trade rumors.02:00 - Prospect Updates and Trades04:30 - Concerns Over Prospects in the System07:00 - Recent Prospect Rankings and Discussions10:30 - Zellweger Article Overview19:30 - League Updates and Player Status22:00 - Expected Scouting and Future Plans25:00 - Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Events

We're now a few weeks past the start of free agency, and it has gone quiet for the most part in the NHL. In this episode, we discuss the breakdown of Louis Crevier at expectedbuffalo.com.Also, get into some chatter on a few rumors still circulating.2:45 - Crevier Breakdown19:25 - Never-ending Hellebuyck rumors26:35 - Patrick Kane 29:00 - Jack Quinn