Buffalo Sabres are once again repeating the same tragic mistake that has plagued them for over a decade — refusing to make the tough but necessary decisions that could propel them back into relevancy. The familiar pattern is unfolding once more: optimism at the beginning of the season quickly gives way to disappointment, leaving Sabres fans to wonder if this year will be any different.
One of the most shocking revelations from this season comes directly from the trade rumor mill. Teams around the league are inquiring about one of the brightest stars in the NHL — Tage Thompson. But, to everyone’s surprise, Buffalo is standing firm, declaring that their 28-year-old sniper is
Is Buffalo really so blind to the reality around them, or are they simply too afraid to admit that they are in danger of losing yet another season? The decision to hold on to Thompson — despite the massive value he currently represents — could be the exact move that seals the Sabres’ fate as another NHL afterthought. Here’s why.
Thompson Is at His Peak — A Once-in-a-Lifetime Trade Asset
Tage Thompson is playing the best hockey of his career right now. Over the last four seasons, he has consistently delivered goal-scoring performances, netting at least 29 goals in each of those seasons. In fact, Thompson has shattered the 35-goal mark three times, and just last season, he scored over 40 goals. Not only is he a proven scorer, but he has been remarkably durable — playing at least 70 games in each of the last three seasons.
The timing couldn’t be better for the Sabres to capitalize on Thompson’s sky-high value. His stock is at its peak, and the Sabres have an unprecedented opportunity to trade him for assets that could completely transform their team. With his contract locked in through 2029-2030, any team that acquires Thompson gets a player who is not only elite but also locked up for the long term.
“If they’re not ready to make the tough calls, then I’m not sticking around to waste my prime. I’ve given it all for this team, but if they won’t act now, I’ll be taking my talents elsewhere.”
— Tage Thompson
In this explosive, fictional quote, Thompson makes it clear: if the Sabres are unwilling to make bold moves, he’s not sticking around to watch his prime years waste away. The market is there, and Thompson is ready to make a move if the Sabres aren’t willing to act.
“Sell High, Don’t Just Hold On to a Fading Dream”
In a league where teams are constantly looking to improve, it’s impossible to believe that Sabres’ management hasn’t received a call about Thompson from teams desperate to contend. The potential return for a player of his caliber could change the direction of the franchise. Imagine if Buffalo were to sell now, using Thompson as a cornerstone to build a team that can finally compete.
Instead, the Sabres seem content with holding on to a player who, despite his excellence, can’t drag a team of underperformers to the playoffs alone. Why wait another year? Why keep a player who could fetch a bounty of young talent and draft picks, when the Sabres have shown little sign of being able to contend for a deep playoff run anytime soon?
The Contract That Gives Buffalo Leverage
Here’s where it gets even more interesting. Thompson’s current contract is incredibly favorable for a trade. While some teams would be wary of acquiring a player with a no-movement clause, Thompson’s contract includes a list of just five teams he cannot be traded to, leaving 26 teams open for negotiation. That’s 26 potential suitors for one of the hottest commodities in the NHL.
In fact, the Sabres could exploit this clause to maximize the return, securing a treasure chest of assets that would lay the foundation for a brighter future. The opportunity is there
— but are the Sabres willing to take it?
What Happens If They Wait Too Long?
If the Sabres continue to drag their feet and hold onto Thompson for too long, the team risks losing out on a massive trade package that could change their fortunes. The longer they wait, the more likely it is that other teams will focus on different targets, and Thompson’s value might start to drop as other top talents enter the trade market.
So, what’s next for the Sabres? Are they willing to learn from the past and seize the moment, or will they let yet another season slip away? The window is closing
, and Buffalo’s reluctance to pull the trigger on a deal that could change their future could leave them stuck in a never-ending cycle of mediocrity.
The Verdict
Fans are on edge, and the trade rumors are swirling — but one thing is clear: The Sabres have an opportunity to rebuild.
“Everyone counted me out, but I’m here to make my own legacy. I don’t need anyone’s approval. My game speaks for itself — and if I’m not in the MVP conversation, then they’re not paying attention.”
— Jonathan Taylor silences the critics, leading the Colts to an 8-2 record and proving that even in a QB-driven league, a running back can still be the difference-maker.
The 2025 NFL season has been full of drama, but no storyline has taken the NFL by storm quite like the shocking resurgence of Jonathan Taylor. Once written off as trade bait after injuries and contract disputes, Taylor has transformed into one of the most dominant forces in the league, leading the Indianapolis Colts to an unexpected 8-2 start and making a legitimate case for MVP honors.
From Trade Bait to Franchise Savior:
Entering the 2025 season, it seemed as though Taylor’s time in Indianapolis might be coming to an end. A series of injuries and a public contract dispute had many questioning his future with the Colts, and the team even explored trade options. It seemed like a rebuilding year for Indianapolis, especially with a new quarterback, Daniel Jones, taking the reins for 2025 after rookie Anthony Richardson had faltered.
But then, Taylor silenced all doubts with a blistering start to the season. No longer the player on the trading block, he has reclaimed the form that made him a first-team All-Pro in 2021. With over 100 yards rushing in multiple games, Taylor has been the engine of the Colts’ offense, powering them to a surprise start in the AFC South. His ability to break tackles, control the clock, and change the game has made him the centerpiece of Indianapolis’ success.
Dominating the MVP Conversation:
While quarterbacks have traditionally dominated the MVP race, Jonathan Taylor is proving that running backs can still claim the crown. As the NFL continues to shift toward a pass-heavy game, Taylor’s production has forced the league to reconsider its assumptions. His numbers speak for themselves: leading the league in rushing yards and total expected points added (EPA) among running backs, Taylor is putting together a season that few thought was possible for a player at his position.
But it’s not just the stats that matter — it’s his undeniable impact on the Colts’ success. When Taylor gets at least 18 carries in a game, the Colts are undefeated. Without him, the team would likely not even be in playoff contention. His performance is directly tied to the Colts’ identity and their success. Take him out, and Indianapolis would no longer be a Super Bowl contender. This makes Taylor’s case for MVP just as strong as the top quarterbacks in the league.
A Story of Redemption and Resilience:
Jonathan Taylor’s journey is one of redemption. After being doubted, criticized, and even considered expendable, he has proven that he is still one of the most dynamic and valuable players in the NFL. His success is a testament to his perseverance and his ability to overcome adversity. With each game, Taylor is showing that greatness can come from anywhere on the field, and his comeback has been nothing short of spectacular.
As the second half of the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Taylor to see if he can maintain this historic pace and lead the Colts deep into the postseason. If he continues to perform at this level, he could very well change the way the NFL views the MVP race and prove once again that running backs still have the power to shape a team’s fate.
Jonathan Taylor isn’t just playing for the MVP — he’s playing to prove that even in a league dominated by quarterbacks, a superstar running back can still be the heart and soul of a championship-caliber team.