They shouldnt be playing Crevier in the top 4 if they want to be competing for a cup lol.
They need to replace Byram minutes.
Dahlin - Samuelsson
Power - ??
Metsa and Timmins?
Big hole to fill.
You haven't been paying attention to Crevier this season then. He's been very strong defensively to end Chicago's season and on a massive upwards trajectory.
Crevier still needs to refine his decision-making in the defensive zone, but as a right-handed defenseman standing at 6'8 with strong overall skating abilities he completely fits the Sabres' wants on defense.
I actually think Crevier wouldn't be the worst option to round-out Buffalo's top-4 with Owen Power next season.
He's a bit unproven, but has the potential to be a good defensive option on a second pairing down the line,
Needless to say, I've really liked Buffalo's move from Byram.
Byram is a good defenseman, but they've gotten great value back in return and look poised to make additional moves to solidify their team for years to come.
Buffalo successfully moved on from Peterka last season and secured a long-term top-6 power winger in Doan as a result, and I think they kind of low-key did the same by including Crevier in this deal on defense.
All told, I think the Atlantic will definitely be the "division of death" again next season with Florida coming back, Toronto looking like they will be better, Buffalo restructuring their team, and other teams like the Canadiens and others likely adding to their rosters too.