The Sabres drafted Alexander Nylander eighth overall in 2016. ©2019, Micheline Veluvolu, Rochester Americans

Sabres trade Alexander Nylander to Blackhawks for Henri Jokiharju

BUFFALO – The Sabres traded winger Alexander Nylander to the Chicago Blackhawks today for defenseman Henri Jokiharju, a swap of former first-round picks.

The deal is hardly surprising. Following another underwhelming season in which he battled injuries, Nylander’s days in the organization seemed numbered.

The Swede, the eighth overall pick by the team’s old regime in 2016, never showcased the tenacity to match his array of talents.

Nylander 21, has often struggled in the AHL, compiling 30 goals and 86 points in 165 games with the Rochester Americans.

In the NHL, Nylander has scored three goals and six points in 19 games.

The Blackhawks drafted the 6-foot, 193-pound Jokiharju 29th overall in 2017. The Finn, 20, compiled zero goals and 12 points in 38 games with the Blackhawks last season, his first NHL action.

Jokiharju won the World Junior Championship with Team Finland earlier this year.

“Henri is a young, mobile defenseman who has shown he can compete at the NHL level,” Sabres general manager Jason Botterill said in a statement. “His international success last season only furthered his development and we are excited to add him to our current group of defensemen.”

Jokiharju is the Sabres’ sixth right-handed defenseman. While righties are coveted, it’s hard to imagine them starting the upcoming season with that number.

More moves are likely in the works. The Sabres also have a surfeit of left wingers.

Stay tuned for updates.

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