Sabres Rumors: Defenseman Mattias Samuelsson Becoming Trade Candidate

19 hours ago  /  NHL Trade Rumors

Mattias Samuelsson was once viewed as a cornerstone of the Buffalo Sabres' defensive rebuild—a steady, physical presence next to stars like Rasmus Dahlin. But after an up-and-down 2024–25 campaign, his future in Buffalo suddenly feels murky. Despite flashes of strong play late in the season, Samuelsson’s inconsistencies, injuries, and questions about his leadership have fueled speculation that the Sabres may be open to moving him this summer.Samuelsson, 25, just wrapped his second season of a seven-year, $30 million contract, but his role seemed to shift drastically throughout the year. He was scratched multiple times by head coach Lindy Ruff, who publicly challenged him to be “harder to play against.” A controversial non-response to a hit on teammate Tage Thompson sparked criticism from fans and pundits alike. “Not my proudest moment,” Samuelsson later admitted. But to his credit, he responded by rounding out his game and delivering some of his best hockey down the stretch. GM Kevyn Adams praised the turnaround, saying, “The positive of it is he looked like himself.”Does Samuelsson Still Fit the Sabres’ Long-Term Vision?Statistically, Samuelsson posted career highs in games played (62), goals (4), and points (14), all while blocking 93 shots and finishing as a plus-3. But the numbers didn’t always match the eye test. Once relied on as a shutdown specialist, Samuelsson took on a more offensive role under Ruff's system—something that didn’t always sit well with fans hoping for the gritty, stay-at-home defender they were used to.Actually Mattias Samuelsson from the Buffalo Sabres has been pretty solid defensively this season. https://t.co/lbfzHU6NRm pic.twitter.com/60Rbkpp3p8— Rono (@RonoAnalyst) March 18, 2025 He still has value. His $4.29 million cap hit is manageable, and he’s young enough that a playoff team could see him as a buy-low option with upside. But Buffalo has other blue-line priorities. Bowen Byram is due a contract, Ryan Johnson is ready for more minutes, and the team is reshaping its identity under Ruff. “He’s not a finished product by any means,” teammate Dylan DeMelo said, but that may not be enough to cement his place.A Trade Might Be on the Table





With five years left on his deal and a reputation that still holds some league-wide weight, Samuelsson could draw interest from contenders looking to bolster their depth. Adams may not be actively shopping him, but the Sabres have made it clear changes are coming. If the right offer lands, Samuelsson’s time in Buffalo could quietly come to an end. Whether it’s about fit, cap flexibility, or culture, the Sabres might soon decide it’s time for a fresh start—for both sides.WHAT A SHIFT ON OFFENSEMATTIAS SAMUELSSON SCORED A GOALTHAT IS HOW YOU SCORE GOALSGAME IS TIED pic.twitter.com/sDKzpsh0az— Crossing Swords ⚔️ (@CrossSwordsPod) January 24, 2025 Photo Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images...

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