Sabres Re-Sign Conor Timmins Through 2026 with 2-Year Contract

Buffalo Sabres Secure Defenseman Conor Timmins with Two-Year Contract ahead of Arbitration

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Sabres have reached an agreement with defenseman Conor Timmins, signing him to a two-year contract worth $4.4 million, thus avoiding a salary arbitration hearing. The deal was finalized Sunday.

By archyde Staff Writer
July 27, 2025, 02:23 PM ET

timmins, 26, was a restricted free agent. He was acquired by the Sabres on June 28 as part of a trade that sent defenseman Connor Clifton to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The deal also included defenseman Isaac Belliveau moving to Buffalo.

This marks Timmins’ fifth NHL team in six seasons. As being drafted in the second round in 2017, he has steadily developed his game. He first broke into the league during the 2019-20 season.

Last season,Timmins achieved a career high with three goals and recorded 15 points in 68 games. These statistics were accumulated across his time with both Pittsburgh and Toronto. His career totals stand at six goals and 46 points over 159 games played.

With Timmins’ contract resolved, the Buffalo Sabres now have only one remaining unsigned restricted free agent: goaltender Devon Levi. The team’s focus will now shift to preparations for the upcoming season, with all key player personnel decisions largely settled.

Understanding Defenseman Contracts and Arbitration

Conor Timmins’ signing highlights the importance of managing player contracts, especially for developing defensemen. Restricted free agency allows teams to retain the rights of their players who have not yet reached unrestricted free agency.

Salary arbitration is a process where a neutral third party determines a player’s salary if the team and player cannot agree on a new contract. This can be a stressful process for both parties,making pre-arbitration settlements,like the one reached by the Sabres and Timmins,highly desirable.

for teams, triumphant contract negotiations ensure roster stability and allow for strategic planning. For players, it provides financial security and a clear understanding of their role within the team’s long-term vision.

Frequently Asked Questions About Conor Timmins and the Sabres

What is Conor Timmins’ new contract with the Buffalo Sabres?

Conor Timmins signed a two-year contract with the Buffalo Sabres valued at $4.4 million.

When was Conor Timmins acquired by the Buffalo Sabres?

Conor Timmins was acquired by the Buffalo Sabres on June 28.

Who was traded in the deal that brought Conor Timmins to Buffalo?

The trade that sent Conor Timmins and Isaac Belliveau to Buffalo also involved defenseman Connor Clifton going to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

what were Conor Timmins’ statistics last season?

Last season, Conor Timmins recorded a career-high three goals and 15 points in 68 games split between Pittsburgh and Toronto.

Is Conor Timmins the last unsigned restricted free agent for the Sabres?

No, goaltender Devon Levi is the Sabres’ only remaining unsigned restricted free agent.

How many NHL teams has Timmins played for?

Conor Timmins has played for five NHL teams in six seasons.

What are your thoughts on this deal? Share your opinions and predictions for Conor Timmins’ performance with the Sabres in the comments below!

How does Conor Timmins’ $2.1 million AAV compare too other defensemen on the Sabres roster and within the league, considering his performance and potential?

Contract Details & Financial Implications

the Buffalo Sabres have secured defenseman Conor Timmins for the next two seasons, signing him to a contract extension through the 2025-2026 NHL season. The deal, announced July 28, 2025, carries an average annual value (AAV) of $2.1 million. This represents a slight increase from his previous qualifying offer and demonstrates the Sabres’ confidence in Timmins’ development and contribution to the team’s defensive core.

Contract Length: 2 years

Average Annual Value (AAV): $2.1 million

Total Contract Value: $4.2 million

Contract Type: Free Agent Extension

This re-signing avoids arbitration with Timmins and provides stability to the sabres’ blue line heading into the upcoming season. The financial terms are considered team-friendly,allowing the Sabres to allocate resources to other potential free agent signings or contract extensions.

Timmins’ Performance & Role with the Sabres

Acquired via trade from the Colorado Avalanche in November 2023, Timmins quickly became a valuable asset for buffalo. he showcased his offensive capabilities and improved defensive awareness, fitting seamlessly into the Sabres’ system.

Here’s a breakdown of his key contributions:

1. Offensive Upside: Timmins possesses a strong skating ability and a knack for joining the rush, contributing to offensive zone play.
2. Defensive Improvement: while initially known for his offensive skills, Timmins demonstrated important growth in his defensive responsibilities under Sabres coaching.
3. Power Play Contributions: He has proven effective on the power play, adding another dimension to his game.
4. Versatility: Timmins can play both left and right defense, offering the coaching staff flexibility in lineup construction.

In the 2024-2025 season, Timmins played in 78 games, registering 6 goals and 25 assists for 31 points, a career high. His plus-minus rating of +12 also indicates a positive impact on the team’s overall performance. He averaged 20:45 of ice time per game, showcasing the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.

Impact on the Sabres’ defensive Depth

the re-signing of Conor Timmins significantly strengthens the Sabres’ defensive depth chart. Buffalo already boasts established defensemen like rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. Timmins provides crucial depth and competition for playing time, creating a more robust and reliable defensive unit.

Top-4 Potential: Timmins has the potential to develop into a consistent top-4 defenseman for the Sabres.

Power Play Specialist: His offensive skills make him a valuable asset on the power play, possibly increasing the team’s scoring efficiency.

Injury Replacement: Having a capable defenseman like Timmins available provides insurance in case of injuries to key players.

Mentorship Role: As he gains experience, Timmins can potentially mentor younger defensemen within the organization.

Analyzing the Sabres’ Strategy

This contract extension aligns with the Sabres’ long-term strategy of building a competitive team through a combination of established stars and developing young players.retaining Timmins at a reasonable price point allows the team to maintain flexibility in their salary cap management while bolstering their defensive capabilities.

The Sabres’ front office clearly values Timmins’ potential and believes he will continue to improve under their guidance.this re-signing demonstrates a commitment to building a strong and enduring defensive core for years to come.The team is highly likely focused on further solidifying their defensive pairings and improving their overall team defense in the upcoming season. Key areas of focus will likely include penalty killing and limiting high-danger scoring chances against.

Looking Ahead: Timmins’ Development & Future with Buffalo

The next two seasons will be crucial for Timmins’ development. He will have the opportunity to further refine his defensive game, increase his offensive output, and establish himself as a key contributor to the Sabres’ success.

Continued Development: Focus on improving defensive zone coverage and physical play.

Increased Duty: Expect to see Timmins take on more responsibility in all situations, including penalty killing.

Leadership Potential: As he gains experience,Timmins could emerge as a leader within the Sabres’ locker room.

Trade Value: Should Timmins continue to progress, he could become a valuable trade asset for the Sabres in the future, should the team decide to retool.