Buffalo Appoints Jarmo Kekäläinen as New Manager
Jarmo Kekäläinen has been appointed as the new manager of the NHL team Buffalo Sabres. The announcement was made on Monday, marking a significant shift in the team’s leadership. He takes over from Kevyn Adams, who was released after serving as the general manager for 5.5 years and being involved with the organization for over 15 years.
Leadership Transition at Buffalo Sabres
Kekäläinen, who joined the Sabres as a senior advisor in May, has displayed notable promise during his time with the franchise. Terry Pegula, the owner of the Sabres, expressed confidence in Kekäläinen’s capabilities, stating, “His experience, professionalism, and attitude speak for themselves. I am excited for him to take our organization to a new level.”
Kekäläinen’s Response and Team Challenges
In response to his new role, Kekäläinen shared his gratitude towards the Pegulas. He remarked, “This is a great honor. I look forward to experiencing the passion that Sabres fans bring to every game.”
Under the previous management, the Sabres have struggled significantly, last making the playoffs in 2011. Currently, the team sits at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with only 32 points, signaling urgent changes are needed.
Kekäläinen’s Background
- Previous Role: Served as the general manager of Columbus Blue Jackets from 2013 to 2024.
- Recent Positions: Worked as an advisor for HIFK in Finland and participated in national team events.
- Personal Loss: Kekäläinen recently announced the passing of his father, Kari Kekäläinen, at the age of 82 due to a long-term illness.
The move to appoint Kekäläinen comes after reports indicated he was a top candidate to replace Adams. The Sabres are hopeful that his leadership will turn around the franchise’s fortunes and reignite the team’s competitive spirit.
As the new manager engages with his team, all eyes will be on the Sabres to see how the changes impact their performance moving forward.
