The Buffalo Sabres announced the hiring of former Sabre Eric Staal as a special assistant to GM Kevyn Adams on Wednesday. However, this could just be the first of many moves that the Sabres make to both their managerial staff, and Lindy Ruff’s head coaching staff.
It was reported by Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff on Wednesday that the Sabres have held multiple meetings and conversations with experienced NHL executives. To beef up their front office around Adams, as he is retaining his position as general manager with one more year left on his contract.
In a previous article I wrote, I talked about the replacements for Adams if he were switched to another role on the team. It now looks like it is possible some of those people who were mentioned could be candidates to help him in the front office.
Sabres owner Terry Pegula is seeking a variety of options, including the hiring of a VP of Hockey Operations or Team President who would serve in a position above Adams. You could also see a senior advisor to the GM or someone to assist Adams in making those decisions.
It could also be a long-term hire. If Adams were to be let go next year, they could move one of those top guys into his spot as GM.
It was also reported by the Buffalo News that one change could be the exit of Sabres Assistant GM Jason Karmanos. Karmanos served as VP of Hockey Operations from 1999 to 2013 and also as Assistant GM in Carolina. Also in similar roles with the Pittsburgh Penguins from 2014 to 2020, including winning a Stanley Cup in 2017. He has been with Buffalo since 2021.
However, it was said he did not participate in the club’s exit interviews last month. And I don’t blame him for not showing up, as arguably the GM job should be Karmanos’s right now. Since coming to Buffalo, he has done everything right and has been the one person constantly improving the team. He was just never given a proper shot with the Sabres and is now looking to go elsewhere.
If the Sabres can bring as much help as possible to Adams, I am all for it. With the team they have going into next year, this is make or break for Adams and the best shot they have had at the playoffs since 2022.