5 Hockey Players who Played for Avalanche and Sabres
My guess is you’ve searched this page out because you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
If I’m right, that also means that today’s grid is asking for players who have played for both the Colorado Avalanche and the Buffalo Sabres.
And, I’m also guessing that you’re a little stuck on this particular square and you’re looking for a little help to keep your grid immaculate. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, I’m here to help.
I’ve already done the research and have put together a list of well-known stars along with some more “under-the-radar” players that could land you a low rarity score.
Dave Andreychuk
Dave Andreychuk had a distinguished career in the NHL, known especially for his goal-scoring prowess and leadership. His career spanned over two decades, during which he played for several teams including the Sabres, Maple Leafs, Devils, Bruins, Avalanche and Lightning.
One of the highlights of his career came later in his tenure with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he served as the team captain. Under his leadership, the Lightning won the Stanley Cup in 2004. This victory was particularly special as it came towards the end of his career, and the Stanley Cup had eluded him until then.
Andreychuk retired as one of the highest-scoring left-wingers in NHL history, holding the record for most career power-play goals for some time. His longevity in the league, consistent scoring ability, and leadership on and off the ice were hallmarks of his career. In recognition of his achievements, Andreychuk was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Andreychuk Key Stats
- Stanley Cup Champion (Lightning)
- 1000+ Career Points (Sabres, Maple Leafs, Devils, Lightning, Bruins, Avalanche)
- 500+ Career Goals (Sabres, Maple Leafs, Devils, Lightning, Bruins, Avalanche)
- 40+ Goals in a Season (Sabres, Maple Leafs)
- 50+ Assists in a Season (Sabres)
Pierre Turgeon
Pierre Turgeon was drafted first overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft, Turgeon quickly made an impact and lived up to the expectations that come with being a top pick. Over his career, he established himself as one of the league’s premier centers, amassing over 1,300 points.
His time with the New York Islanders brought both career highlights and one of its most infamous moments. During the 1993 playoffs, after scoring a crucial goal, Turgeon was blindsided by a hit from Dale Hunter of the Washington Capitals, an incident that resulted in a significant suspension for Hunter.
In addition to his stints with the Sabres and Islanders, he also played for the Canadiens, Blues, Stars, and Avalanche. Turgeon’s legacy in the NHL is defined by his graceful play, impressive point totals, and the respect he garnered from both teammates and opponents alike. He remains one of the highest-scoring players of his era.
Turgeon Key Stats
- 500+ Career Goals (Sabres, Blues, Islanders, Canadiens, Stars, Avalanche)
- 100+ Point Season (Sabres, Islanders)
- 40+ Goal Season (Sabres, Islanders)
- 50+ Assist Season (Sabres, Islanders, Canadiens, Blues)
Ryan O’Reilly
Ryan O’Reilly was drafted 33rd overall in the second round of the 2009 NHL Draft by the Colorado Avalanche, where he started to build a reputation as a reliable and smart player, quickly becoming a key figure in the team’s lineup.
In 2015, he was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he continued to showcase his skill and hockey IQ. His individual skill was recognized when he was awarded the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct in 2014.
However, it was after his trade to the St. Louis Blues in 2018 that he truly flourished, playing a central role in the team’s historic run to win their first-ever Stanley Cup in 2019. His performance throughout the playoffs was rewarded with the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs.
O’Reilly Key Stats
- All-Star (Sabres, Blues)
- Stanley Cup Winner (Blues)
Craig Anderson
Craig Anderson, an American goaltender, had a distinguished career in the NHL. Anderson played for multiple teams including the Blackhawks, Panthers, Avalanche, Senators, Capitals, and Sabres. He is particularly remembered for his time with the Ottawa Senators, where he played for 10 seasons.
Anderson’s career in the NHL included many achievements, including playing in over 700 games and securing over 300 wins, a milestone reached by only 39 NHL goaltenders. He represented the United States in international play as well.
One of the highlights of his career was being awarded the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 2017, which is given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.
Anderson Key Stats
- 300+ Career Wins (Senators, Blackhawks, Panthers, Avalanche, Sabres, Capitals)
- 30+ Win Season (Avalanche, Senators)
Daniel Brière
Daniel Brière is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player and current executive serving as the general manager of the Philadelphia Flyers. Brière was drafted in the first round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft by the Phoenix Coyotes and played for several NHL teams, including the Sabres, Flyers, Canadiens, and Avalanche.
He entered the NHL with the Coyotes and spent his first four seasons splitting time between the NHL and the AHL. Brière’s NHL career took off after he was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he emerged as a star player. He led the Flyers in scoring during the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs and nearly broke Wayne Gretzky’s record for points in a final series.
Brière concluded his NHL playing career with the Colorado Avalanche, retiring in 2015. He was the first NHL player to have an accent on his jersey while playing for the Canadiens.
Briere Key Stats
- 50+ Assist Season (Sabres)
