"We are now into our 2nd off season leading this team and we feel it was time to surround our young players with some skilled veterans to take the next step forward" explained GM Poulin

Major changes did in fact happen as Buffalo brought in skilled C/LW Jeff Skinner from Vancouver for a package that was centered around the 11th overall pick in this years draft. A few hours after the Skinner acquisition, Poulin pulled the trigger acquiring Alex Ovechkin for the 28th overall pick, and signed the super star to an extension right away. The third  deal that brought it Brad Thiessen was interesting. Buffalo was uncertain in their goalie situation, and were approached by Winnipeg. The deal came together within minutes and suddenly the Sabres found themselves with a bonified #1 Goaltender. 

"We wanted to get a jump on addressing our main priority needs before FA hit in a week or so. We learned real quick going through this process last year that nothing is garanteed in FA and that you better open the pocket book."

Thinking that the roster had shaped up well GM Poulin was on the look out for his final piece. A Bruising Dman. 

"It took a long time to find what we were after."

Patience paid off as Buffalo surprisingly dealt Brady Tkachuk along with Chabot to Nashville for Cal Foote, and Yanni Gourde who is expected to slot into a top 6 role with the team.

The look of the franchise has changed alot and making a playoff push this season is a realistic goal this season.