The Buffalo Sabres addressed their defense Wednesday, acquiring 22-year-old Olen Zellweger from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for prospect Anton Wahlberg and a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Zellweger, 22, arrives in Buffalo after appearing in a career-high 76 games for Anaheim last season, recording seven goals and 15 assists for 22 points. Originally selected by the Ducks in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft, the left-shot defenseman has already accumulated three seasons of NHL experience and made his postseason debut this spring.
Known for his skating ability, Zellweger ranked among the NHL’s fastest defensemen last season according to NHL Edge. He finished fifth in the league with 162 speed bursts between 20 and 22 mph, trailing only Matthew Schaefer, Cale Makar, Jake Sanderson and Quinn Hughes. He also ranked sixth among NHL defensemen in speed bursts exceeding 22 mph.
Beyond his speed, Zellweger has developed a reputation as an effective puck mover. Anaheim controlled 53.3 percent of shot attempts during his five-on-five ice time, tying him for the best mark among the Ducks’ regular defensemen. He also ranked among the league’s top defensemen in puck carries that directly led to shots, highlighting his ability to generate offense in transition.
Buffalo parts with Wahlberg, a second-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. The 20-year-old forward spent last season with the Rochester Americans, producing 37 points on nine goals and 28 assists in 68 games.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.