x
Breaking News
More () »

Sabres captain Kyle Okposo traded to Florida

In exchange, the Sabres will get defenseman Calle Sjalin and a seventh-round draft pick in the 2024 NHL Draft.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Sabres have traded their captain, Kyle Okposo to the Florida Panthers. 

In exchange, the Sabres will get defenseman Calle Sjalin and a seventh-round draft pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. 

News of trade came out on Friday, a few hours before the trade deadline. 

Sjalin, 24, was with the Charlotte Checkers prior to the trade.  He has three assists in 22 games this season. He has 11 points (5+6) in 61 career AHL games.

RELATED ARTICLE: Buffalo Sabres trade Erik Johnson to the Philadelphia Flyers before NHL deadline

Sjalin was a fifth-round draft pick by the New York Rangers in 2017. He previously played for Leksands IF of the SHL, and was a former teammate of Sabres prospect Isak Rosen, according to the Sabres. 

Okposo had been with the Sabres since 2016, when he signed with the Sabres as a free agent.   Okposo had 19 goals, 26 assist  in 65 games with the Sabres and he also played in the 2017 NHL All-Star Game.

He was drafted in the first round, 7th overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders. 

Okposo's career spans over the course of 17 NHL seasons, playing for both the Sabres and New York Islanders. He was honored by the Sabres earlier this season when he played his 1,000 NHL game. 

He had signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract last year to stay with the Sabres.

On Wednesday, the Sabres traded forward Casey Mittelstadt to the Colorado Avalanche for Bowen Byram. 

For all that you’ve given to this team, this city, and these fans… For representing the blue and gold so well… We thank you, Kyle.

Posted by Buffalo Sabres on Friday, March 8, 2024

RELATED VIDEO: 

Before You Leave, Check This Out