The Edmonton Oilers are getting contributions from their entire roster as they push through the playoffs, but one player, despite currently being sidelined, stands out as a prime target for the Buffalo Sabres in free agency this summer. That player is right winger Connor Brown. Although Brown has yet to return after taking a heavy hit from Dallas Stars defenseman Alex Petrovich in Game 3, he was one of Edmonton’s top secondary scorers, tallying five goals and eight points in 14 playoff games so far. At 31 years old, Brown might not make the highlight reels often, but his determination and tenacity make him a highly valuable asset to the Oilers.
During the regular season, Brown delivered an impressive 13 goals and 30 points over 82 games, and while Edmonton might offer him a new contract, he could attract attention elsewhere. Drafted 156th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2012, Brown has played for multiple NHL teams including Toronto, Ottawa Senators, Washington Capitals, and the Oilers. He has consistently scored at least 13 goals in five of his nine NHL seasons and has reached the 20-goal mark twice. While he isn’t a superstar who commands a massive salary, his solid performance should earn him a significant pay raise in his next deal.
Being a Toronto native, Brown might prefer to play closer to home next season, making him an ideal candidate for the Sabres to pursue aggressively. If Buffalo offers him contract security around $2 million per year for roughly three years, it could convince Brown to join their roster. While it’s unlikely there will be a bidding war for his services, Brown’s strong playoff showing makes a competitive contract negotiation worthwhile.
Brown’s experience, adaptability, and understated leadership would be valuable assets for the Sabres. Since Buffalo struggles to attract high-profile unrestricted free agents, targeting Brown is a smart move that could benefit both the player and the team. Joining a promising Sabres squad could also be highly appealing for Brown.
With plenty of salary cap space available, the Sabres could also look towards other free agents, like those from the Vancouver Canucks, but Brown remains a priority. Although previously underrated, Brown’s steady rise this postseason signals a shift, catching the eye of teams as he enters free agency. He fits the role Buffalo desperately needs.
While Brown might decide to stay with the Oilers if they win the Stanley Cup and offer a good contract, the Sabres should aggressively court him by highlighting the financial benefits and opportunities in Buffalo. Brown brings a unique skill set that makes him a valuable contributor, and he could shine even brighter in a Sabres uniform.
Fan Take: This potential signing is exciting for hockey fans because it highlights the importance of versatile, hard-working players like Connor Brown who may not always grab headlines but significantly impact their teams. For the sport, it shows that savvy teams can build competitive rosters by focusing on experienced role players who bring leadership and consistency, which can ultimately elevate the level of play and team success.
