Buffalo Sabres Eye Kekäläinen for Long-Term GM Solution

After a lengthy absence from playoff contention, the Buffalo Sabres are at a crossroads. Their last postseason appearance was in the 2010-11 season. Since then, the team has narrowly missed the playoffs in 2011-12, 2019-20, and 2022-23, often finishing at the bottom of their conference.

Current Management Situation

Kevin Adams, who became the general manager in 2020, has faced significant challenges. In the latest season, he led the team to finish just one point short of a playoff spot. However, despite his efforts, the roster has undergone substantial changes, losing key players like Casey Mittelstadt and Jeff Skinner.

While there are bright spots such as Rasmus Dahlin, Tage Thompson, and Alex Tuch, the consistency of the lineup remains problematic. The acquisition of Josh Doan from the Utah Mammoth has provided some excitement, but fans are still reeling from the trade of Sam Reinhart to the Florida Panthers in 2021.

Impacts of Recent Trades

• Sam Reinhart’s departure has been particularly painful for Sabres fans.
• In return, the team received goaltender Devon Levi and a first-round pick in 2022.
• Reinhart flourished in Florida, doubling his point total and becoming a two-time Stanley Cup champion.

Conversely, Levi has spent this season exclusively in the AHL, while Jiří Kulich, acquired via the draft pick, is still developing.

Looking Ahead: A Need for Change

Five years under Adams has yielded little progress. With owner Terry Pegula heavily involved with his NFL team, the Buffalo Bills, there is an urgent need for someone to guide the Sabres toward success.

Jarmo Kekäläinen, currently the oldest advisor, may be an ideal candidate for the general manager position. His tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets saw the organization improve significantly, attracting top talent. Most notably, he was responsible for bringing Patrik Laine to Ohio.

Kekäläinen’s Track Record

• Kekäläinen became the first European GM in NHL history.
• His strategic vision centered on sustainable development and success.
• While divisional championships eluded his teams, they consistently improved under his leadership.

If appointed, Kekäläinen might not transform the franchise overnight, but his experience could be invaluable in developing a competitive team. In a struggling franchise like the Sabres, strong leadership is crucial for future success.