NHL rumors: Flames, Kraken eye Sabres' $3.75m rising scorer

The Buffalo Sabres are not factoring Jack Quinn’s poor play. They’re testing the market with him now, when his value is probably at its highest before a new contract raises his price. Buffalo wants to keep building after ending a long playoff drought, and that could mean trading a productive young forward for help in another area.Quinn’s age, scoring touch and team-friendly cap hit have made him one of the more interesting names in NHL trade rumors. If the Sabres decide to move him, they’d probably want a roster player back as opposed to future draft capital.Buffalo Sabres weigh future of forward Jack Quinn NHL trade candidate amid rumorsThe Buffalo Sabres are looking to see if Jack Quinn can be the upgrade that helps them take another step forward in 2026-27.Buffalo appears more focused on NHL-ready help than future draft picks. The front office may want to use Quinn as a trade chip for immediate roster improvement with a strong group of young players already in the system.Quinn has great trade value after scoring 20 goals and finishing with 51 points in all 82 regular-season games in 2025-26.CategoryDetailsPlayerJack QuinnCurrent TeamBuffalo SabresPositionRight Wing / ForwardAge24Contract StatusOne year left on a $3.75 million cap hit2025-26 Production20 goals, 51 points in 82 gamesMain Concern for BuffaloTurning a young scorer into a roster upgrade before his next contractTrade Market RiskHigh, because his value is strong and his deal is affordableTeams Linked to InterestCalgary Flames, Seattle KrakenWhy Rival Teams Are InterestedHe brings scoring, age, and cost controlPlaying StyleYoung offensive winger with even-strength scoring valuePotential Outcome for BuffaloKeep Quinn or use him in a trade for immediate helpLeague-Wide ImpactHis situation could influence other offseason trade talksWhy could Calgary Flames become a strong fit?The Calgary Flames could use more scoring depth and may see Quinn as a player who fits their timeline. His age and cheap contract make him a logical target for a team looking to add offense and stay flexible.A young top-six winger with a proven production history would give Calgary another option as it remakes its forward group.Why are the Seattle Kraken linked to Jack Quinn?The Seattle Kraken have also been linked to young forwards who can grow with their core. Quinn would also be a good fit for a team that needs more consistency, as he has a history of scoring at even strength and has playoff experience.If Seattle wants a forward who can contribute now, but still has room to grow, Quinn is a good fit.What could a potential trade mean for Buffalo?A trade for Quinn could help the Buffalo Sabres in defense or another need. Buffalo might want to move him now, if the right deal comes along, rather than pay him a bigger contract later.As the start of training camp draws closer, Jack Quinn’s name could stay among the most closely watched in NHL trade rumors all summer.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.