The Buffalo Sabres are being encouraged to aggressively pursue Vancouver Canucks forward Kiefer Sherwood as the NHL trade deadline approaches. With the deadline approximately two months away, trade activity is expected to increase, especially with February dedicated to the Winter Olympics. After an impressive run, and with a new general manager, Jarmo Kekalainen, at the helm, the Sabres are expected to be active in the market.
Sherwood is garnering significant interest around the league, with potentially over a dozen teams in the mix for the Columbus, Ohio native. He is currently playing on an expiring contract with a reasonable $1.5 million AAV (average annual value) and is exceeding expectations with his performance. As of early January 2026, Sherwood has 21 points in 41 games, following a career-best season of 40 points in 78 games the previous year. Despite ongoing conversations, Sherwood and the Canucks are reportedly far apart in contract negotiations, making a trade more likely.
Several teams, including Atlantic Division rivals Montreal Canadiens, Boston Bruins, and Detroit Red Wings, are actively pursuing Sherwood. While the Tampa Bay Lightning were previously considered a potential suitor, they are reportedly no longer in the mix. Acquiring Sherwood would not only bolster the Sabres' roster but also prevent a division rival from adding a valuable player.
The Sabres' recent success, including a 13-2 run that has placed them in contention for a Wild Card spot, underscores the need to maintain momentum. While the team has shown improvement, there are still areas that need addressing. In early December, the Sabres were at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. Missing the playoffs for a 15th consecutive season seemed all but certain. The change in management came, and the Sabres couldn't lose. They ripped off 10 straight wins and 13 of 14 before falling to the Panthers. The Sabres now sit in a tie for the second Wild Card spot. Depth on the defensive end is a priority, but adding a forward with Sherwood's attributes – toughness and scoring ability – has been a long-standing need.
Sherwood's playing style is characterized by tenacity and physicality. He led the NHL in hits a season ago and is near the top this season. In addition to his physical play, Sherwood has contributed offensively, with 17 goals already this season, just two shy of his previous season's career-high.
If acquired, Sherwood could fit well within the Sabres' top nine forwards, providing scoring ability, physicality, and options for both the penalty kill and power play. He already has six power-play goals this season. However, the Sabres would likely be acquiring him as a rental player, as they have several players, including Alex Tuch, who are due for new contracts in the summer. Tuch is reportedly seeking a contract with an AAV exceeding $10 million. Despite the potential short-term nature of Sherwood's tenure in Buffalo, his impact could be significant in helping the team secure a playoff berth.
