Buffalo Sabres 2025-26 Player Report Card: Zach Metsa

The Sabres found a diamond in the rough when they gave a shot to defender Zach Metsa this past season. The 27 year old first year player finally saw his first NHL action after some solid minor league hockey, and he did not disappoint. He showed that he had the leadership, the skills, and the determination to make the most out of the unfortunate circumstance caused by the Conor Timmins injury, and he not only filled the role, but he gained the head coach’s favor while becoming a bit of a fan favorite.

Metsa Was a Machine

Metsa started the season in the minors as the newest elected captain of the Rochester Americans, but by the time the Timmins injury sidelined him for months, Metsa was up with the Sabres by the middle of December, and making great strides with his nearly full time call up. He was not an offensive force by any means, but he was the kind of player that was defensively solid, and did all the little things right.

He made sound defensive plays left and right. He made the goaltenders feel secure when he was on the ice, and he even had an amazing stretch of 23 consecutive games without being scored on 5-on-5. He was an absolute machine at being responsible in his own end, and making good plays up the ice in transition to get the puck out. He was the model and the example for what it was the be a premier third pairing defender, and he was near flawless with his execution.

Grading Metsa

He was a beacon of defense, a model of what it meant to keep a level head, a silent leader, and an outstanding teammate. Metsa’s only shortcoming was his ability to put up points, as he only managed 2 goals and 6 points in 43 regular season games, and 1 goal in his 2 playoff appearances. The best part is, his production did not really matter, as his defensive capabilities, and responsible nature are what really made him stand out. With that being said, these would be his grades:

• Scoring – C
• Defense – A
• Leadership – A-
• Playmaking – C
• Teamwork – A

Metsa did not need to be anything more than what he was. His plus-16 in the plus/minus category speaks for itself as a first year defenseman, and it shows how far he has come. He has grown since his early years in the organization, and all of his experience has turned him into a defensive weapon at Lindy Ruff’s disposal. He earned the right to play every single game by the time late season rolled around, not just because anyone was injured, but because he was the best option they had for that spot.

Metsa’s Future in Buffalo

Metsa is in the final season of his two year contract that he signed in 2025. It is a two-way contract that allows him to be sent down to the minors, but after how he has played this past season, I believe he will get some additional time in Buffalo. It will not be long term, as he is a third pairing defender at most right now, and the Sabres still have high end young prospects who may fill the role, but as of now, he can easily slot in the “7th” defenseman role. He would be perfect to keep around for another season or two, but I do not see him in a Sabres sweater beyond 2029.