Sabres' new defenseman Michael Kesselring shows one reason why he was worth JJ Peterka trade

Buffalo Sabres fans weren't thrilled late Wednesday night when news emerged that they were traded JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth.

The return, 23-year old forward Josh Doan and 25-year old defenseman Michael Kesselring, wasn't bad. But it felt like another case of the Sabres trading a talented young player for no great reason.

Then, a video emerged on X. And it changed all the vibes.

Here's a look at Kesselring gliding right past Peterka and dishing out a sweet assist:

Michael Kesselring walking JJ Peterka pic.twitter.com/EUXvUEmhot

MORE: Mammoth trade for JJ Peterka, immediately give him big extension

Sure, it's just one play. But that should make Sabres fans feel a bit better.

Kesselring is more established at the NHL level. He's a strong two-way defenseman.

Whether or not Doan pans out might determine the overall grade of this trade.

But in a very direct comparison, the defenseman Kesselring showed how his offensive zone play can be better than a forward who might be tasked with stopping him.

If he does that for the Sabres, this might work out just fine.

MORE NHL NEWS: 

• Penguins could trade Erik Karlsson
• Evan Bouchard could get a ton of money from the Oilers
• Stars make final decision on Jamie Benn
• Bruins defenseman leaving Boston for contract in Russia
• Jake Allen has a big price tag
• Connor McDavid could make a decision that shocks the NHL