NHL Free Agency Rumor: Buffalo Sabres emerge as potential landing spot for ex $13.5M Dallas Stars’ winger | NHL News
Michael Bunting, the 30 year old left winger, had a tough 2025–26 NHL season, recording 14 goals and 33 points with a -24 rating across 74 games as he split his time between the Nashville Predators and Dallas Stars. After his three year contract expired at the end of the season, Michael Bunting became an unrestricted free agent. Ahead of training camp, the Buffalo Sabres has been linked to him.
| Category | Details |
| Player | Michael Bunting |
| Current Status | Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA) |
| Rumored Teams | Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens, and Minnesota Wild |
| Signing Likelihood | High (Expected to sign a short-term deal ahead of training camp) |
| Latest Insider Update | Teams are weighing his grit against a down season; Buffalo Sabres have been linked to him. |
Which teams are interested in Michael Bunting?
As per NHL insiders and analysts, the Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens, and Minnesota Wild are currently among the top teams heavily linked to Michael Bunting, while a possible return to the Dallas Stars have also been predicted.
What are insiders saying about the rumors?
A few hours ago, Michael DeRosa of The Hockey News noted in a recent report, “The Sabres were one of the teams strongly connected to Kane this off-season before he signed with Chicago. Because of this, it would not be surprising if they pivoted to Bunting.”Michael DeRosa of The Hockey News added, “While he does not produce the same kind of offense as Kane, he would help solidify their top nine if signed. With the Sabres losing Alex Tuch this off-season and not making any notable additions on offense this summer, it could make sense for them to bring in Bunting on a short-term deal. He could be a nice fit on their third line if brought in.”But the Buffalo Sabres has not responded to the speculations concerning Michael Bunting yet as the team focuses on its roster.
How will this affect the team?
For the Buffalo Sabres, signing Michael Bunting wil be affordable for the team since they have ample cap space left. Michael Bunting would provide a veteran edge and postseason experience will significantly elevate the competitive drive of the team’s young roster.A few weeks ago, in an interview with Leafs Morning Take with Nick Alberga and co-host David Pagnotta, Michael Bunting opened up about free agency as he said, “I haven’t really thought about it [free agency] much to be honest. I just got back to Toronto, so I’m trying to spend as much time with my family, friends, and I’m busy being a dad…”The star player added, “That being said, I don’t really know what’s in my cards right now, I’m just kind of waiting and seeing what happens with Dallas here. Obviously, I ended the year with them, and I’m coming off really positive talks with Jim [Jim Nill] and Gully [Glen Gulutzan] at my end-of-year meetings, so just waiting to hear from them and see where things go.”
