The Buffalo Sabres have traded scoring winger JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth in exchange for defenseman Michael Kesselring and forward Josh Doan on Wednesday.
Once again, the Sabres find themselves in the position of giving up the player in a deal. The Sabres and Peterka have been hot topics in the rumor mill since the offseason began. There had been much speculation concerning Peterka’s desire to move on from Buffalo. The 23-year-old restricted free agent signed a 5-year, $7.7 million per year contract extension with Utah following the completion of the deal. Peterka scored 27 goals and added 41 assists last season. In his three seasons with the Sabres, he scored 67 goals and 150 points.
In exchange, the Sabres add defenseman Michael Kesselring. Kesselring will likely be paired with former first overall selection Owen Power on the Buffalo blueline.
“I think there’s a good opportunity for me here,” Kesselring said. “I’m ready to prove that I can play an elevated role for an extended time. It’s really exciting.”
Also coming to the Sabres in the deal is 23-year-old right wing Josh Doan. Doan is a hard-working bottom-six forward who should help the Sabres as they look to improve the team’s two-way play. Doan is looking forward to helping his new team as they strive for a return to the postseason.
“ I think the guys here are going in the right direction,” Doan said. “I’m excited to be part of a group that can push hard this year.”
Buffalo was unwilling to go into the fall with Peterka in the lineup on an expiring contract. The general manager has emphasized seeking players who want to be in Buffalo. The departure of Peterka leaves a significant hole in Buffalo’s forward group. For the Sabres to improve, more moves must be coming this offseason. A top-six forward help must be added to replace Peterka’s offensive contribution.
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