The Buffalo Sabres are a team that has seen significant lineup changes in recent seasons, and it appears this trend may continue following the 2024-25 season. As the team evolves under the leadership of new head coach Lindy Ruff, certain players who were once expected to be key contributors might find themselves on the outside looking in. Here’s a closer look at three players who may not return after the upcoming season.
Jordan Greenway
Jordan Greenway has been a mixed bag since joining the Sabres. While he brings physicality and has logged top-six minutes, his inconsistency is a concern. Last season, Greenway posted 28 points and 10 goals in 67 games, but his Corsi For Percentage at even strength was just 47.9%, indicating he was often on the wrong side of possession metrics.
His on-ice save percentage of 89.6% further reflects some defensive lapses. Despite his potential fit with the identity that GM Kevyn Adams and Coach Lindy Ruff are aiming to establish, Greenway’s underwhelming performances over his first 84 games with the Sabres suggest that he needs to significantly elevate his game. If not, he could be donning a different uniform next season.
Connor Clifton
Youth is becoming the hallmark of the Sabres’ defensive lineup, and this may spell trouble for Connor Clifton. Despite his durability over the past two seasons, Clifton finds himself in a tough spot with the emergence of younger, more dynamic defensemen like Bowen Byram and Henri Jokiharju.
Both Byram and Jokiharju outperformed Clifton last season, with Byram, in particular, showing impressive physicality that aligns with the team’s direction. Clifton’s future with the Sabres could be in jeopardy, especially if Byram earns an extension and Jokiharju continues to develop. Given the Sabres’ focus on youth, moving on from Clifton to make room for these rising stars seems likely.
Jacob Bryson
The decision to bring back Jacob Bryson has been met with some puzzlement, as his performance has been underwhelming, resembling that of fellow defenseman Kale Clague, who has occasionally outshined him. With the emergence of Ryan Johnson, who made a significant impact last year, Bryson’s place on the Sabres roster appears tenuous.
If Johnson continues to outplay Bryson, the latter might find himself relegated to organizational depth, potentially becoming a forgotten figure in Sabres history. Bryson’s chances of remaining with the team seem slim, particularly with younger talent ready to step up.
As the Sabres continue to build toward the future, these players will need to prove their value if they hope to stick around. The 2024-25 season could be pivotal for Greenway, Clifton, and Bryson, as they strive to carve out roles in an increasingly competitive roster.
