The Buffalo Sabres and San Jose Sharks have made a trade with some significant draft-day implications.
The Sabres acquired the 20th overall pick from the Sharks in exchange for the 27th overall pick and defenceman Michael Kesselring, the teams announced Wednesday.
The Sabres move up seven spots in the first round of a draft projected to be deep and the Sharks acquire a right-shot defenceman coming off an injury-riddled season with much still to prove.
Kesselring was limited to just 34 regular-season games in 2025-26, recording just two assists. Prior to that, he had a career-best season in 2024-25, playing all 82 games for the Utah Mammoth, potting seven goals and 29 points.
He was acquired by Buffalo alongside Josh Doan in the 2025 off-season in the deal that sent JJ Peterka to Utah.
“Michael has a big frame with solid two-way ability,” said Sharks general manager Mike Grier in a statement. “He is a responsible player in the defensive zone with a well rounded offensive game, and will be a good upgrade for us patrolling the blue line. We’re happy to have him a part of the organization.”
In addition to the No. 27 pick, the Sharks also hold the second-overall pick at the 2026 draft, marking the third year in a row that San Jose has selected in the top three.
The draft takes place June 26-27 in Buffalo.
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