It’s time for another edition of NHL rumours. We’re just over a week into the 2024-25 NHL regular season. However, some teams are already feeling the pressure. Stanley Cups aren’t won in the first month of the season, but teams can get in trouble early on. A bad start could mean some changes might be on the horizon for some teams. One team that’s gotten off to a bad start is the Buffalo Sabres. This edition of NHL rumours deals with the possible pressure the front office may be feeling.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Buffalo Sabres Brass Under the Gun
Rumour: The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta said there is some “noise” surrounding he franchise. Pagnotta was on NHL Network Radio with Ryan Paton and Dennis Bernstein and he reiterated that there is some chatter about a possible general manager change. This is contingent on if the Sabres continue to struggle.
Analysis: Buffalo is in the midst of a 13-season Stanley Cup Playoff drought. General manager Kevyn Adams has been active in trying to make the right moves to get back into contention. However, the team is 1-3 after four games so far.
Adams has brought Lindy Ruff back into the fold, but the Sabres are still trying to find their way. Buffalo has a good amount of young talent, but that hasn’t brought them back into post-season hockey.
The Pegula family has yet to enjoy playoff hockey since taking over. It’s an odd sight considering how their ownership of the NFL Buffalo Bills has been the opposite.
The Clock is Ticking
Pressure has been building in Western New York for quite some time. A practice earlier in the week saw team captain Rasmus Dahlin and Peyton Krebs come to blows.
We’re seeing a team desperate to get back into the race after a sluggish start. The season may still be young, but a bad start could doom a team. Buffalo made a late push for a post-season spot, but some rough stretches in play might have cost it a playoff spot.
Pagnotta said that he thinks the Sabres have someone in mind for the post. As mentioned before, there are some good pieces on the roster. However, these players are still in the early stages on their career.
What’s Next for Adams if a Change Happens?
Adams may get relieved of his general manager duties. However, it may not mean that Adams would be done with the franchise. Pagnotta notes that the former NHL veteran would be given a higher managerial title.
Terry Pegula is currently the team’s owner, CEO and President. One wonders if Adams would get some sort of hockey operations title and someone else would become the general manager and take the lead on making moves.
Saturday’s victory against the Florida Panthers did help Buffalo out. However, Pagnotta said wait and see how the next month plays out before the franchise plots its next course of action. We could see some early-season front office movement if the Sabres continue to struggle.
Main photo by: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
