When Josh Norris was acquired alongside Jacob Bernard-Docker from the Ottawa Senators for Dylan Cozens, Dennis Gilbert and a 2026 second-round pick at last year’s trade deadline, it was met with mixed reactions. For some, it felt like the final nail in the coffin on an already underwhelming season. For others, it meant a change and a fresh start after the deadline.
The fresh start did not last long for the 2017 first-round pick, as he only played 3 games with the Sabres before experiencing a season-ending injury that would put an abrupt end to his fresh start in Buffalo. Norris was impactful in that short time, scoring once and adding an assist.
Norris, playing for the Ottawa Senators last season, scored 20 goals and 33 points in 53 games and demonstrated he can be a superstar in the NHL. However, over the past 4 seasons, injuries and setbacks have turned his once-promising career into one filled with question marks.
One of the questions heading into this season for Norris was what role he would play. Sabres Head Coach Lindy Ruff quelled questions on Norris’ position and praised his game before the puck even dropped in the preseason.
“We will get the opportunity now to see the real Norris,” Ruff said. “I’m extremely optimistic about how Norris is going to fit in.”
That mindset was echoed by Norris as he entered training camp with a new outlook, renewed health, and a new number.
“It’s been probably about 3 years since I’ve had a full summer of training,” Norris said when asked about his offseason. “It felt great to have a fully healthy summer.”
This is a very positive sign as the Sabres look to lean on Norris to be their number one center on a line with Benson and Thompson.
“It’s nice to be out there with them and get some chemistry going. I’m excited to keep going with those guys,” Norris said when asked about his linemates.
Josh Norris looks like a man reborn in the Buffalo Sabres’ preseason. Through three games, Norris has shown incredible scoring ability, hand-eye coordination and chemistry with linemates Zach Benson and Tage Thompson.
Benson played two preseason games with Norris before missing the final two due to injury. Benson returned to practice on Oct. 6, and is expected to play on opening night.
With Benson missing the team’s final two preseason games, the third spot on the Sabres’ top line was filled by Peyton Krebs and Jack Quinn. Norris did not miss a beat, scoring twice and adding an assist in those two games against the Penguins.
All signs are trending in a positive direction with regard to Josh Norris’ 2025-26 season campaign. With his scoring ability, playmaking, and chemistry on a line with Benson and Thompson, Norris looks to capitalize on his renewed health and bring the energy this season.
As the regular season begins, only time will tell how the new Josh Norris will impact the Buffalo Sabres this season, but if this preseason is anything to go off, he will be the key to this team taking the next step.