The Buffalo Sabres made their first major move of the offseason Tuesday, trading defenseman Michael Kesselring and their 2026 first-round draft pick to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for the No. 20 overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft.
The move allows Buffalo to climb seven spots in the opening round, moving from No. 27 to No. 20 while parting ways with a defenseman whose first season with the organization never gained traction.
Kesselring, 26, arrived in Buffalo last summer alongside Josh Doan in the trade that sent JJ Peterka to Utah. While Doan quickly emerged as an important contributor during the Sabres’ Atlantic Division-winning campaign, Kesselring struggled to establish a consistent role. Injuries limited his opportunities early in the season, and he later fell down the depth chart as Buffalo added veterans Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn while receiving strong performances from young defenseman Zach Metsa.
The right-shot blueliner appeared in 34 regular-season games, recording two assists while averaging 13:24 of ice time. He also made one playoff appearance.
Although Buffalo parts with a player who once projected as a potential top-four defenseman, the trade creates additional flexibility on the blue line and strengthens the club’s draft position. It could also signal confidence in the organization’s ability to secure a long-term extension with defenseman Bowen Byram.
Kesselring now heads to San Jose seeking a fresh opportunity, while the Sabres continue what is expected to be an active offseason focused on building around a roster coming off its first playoff appearance in 15 years.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.