As last weekend’s NHL trade freeze approached, the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens did everything but freeze.
The Habs sent defenseman Nathan Beaulieu to the Queen City in exchange for a third-round pick in this years NHL Entry Draft.
Beaulieu, a 24 year-old Ontario native, was a first-round pick of the Canadiens in the 2011 draft. He has appeared in 225 career games, netted seven goals, and posts a +19 overall career rating.
While the young defenseman’s stats are not jaw-dropping, Beaulieu is a solid addition to the Sabres at a great price.
Youth, playoff experience, and a left-handed shot outline his qualities.