The Buffalo Sabres have hired Eric Staal as a Special Assistant to General Manager Kevyn Adams. Staal was an outstanding forward in the National Hockey League for 18 seasons, playing most of his career with the Carolina Hurricanes, with stops in Minnesota, Montreal, the NY Rangers and the Florida Panthers.
His playing career included a 32-game stint with the Sabres in 2020-21. Staal and Adams were teammates in Carolina and won a Stanley Cup together in 2006. Staal also won Olympic Gold and played in six NHL All-Star Games.
“As I looked for ways to enhance our coaching staff, I wanted to add somebody to our group that has a fresh perspective and the direct experience of winning at all levels of hockey”, Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams said in a press release.
Staal doesn’t bring hockey management experience to his new role, but does provide a track record of winning. The 40-year-old was a key contributor to successful teams. He is also not far removed from an NHL locker room, as he played in the NHL in the 2022-2023 season and had just announced his retirement in July of 2024.
Further changes are needed in Buffalo beyond this hire. The emphasis on a culture change is reverberating throughout the organization. Staal’s knowledge of today’s game and current players in the league could be a valuable asset.
“He has done it all as a player and I know his experience and knowledge will be invaluable to our team”, Adams said.
The Thunder Bay, Ontario native is excited about the challenge ahead and his return to Western New York
“Although it was short, I loved my time in Buffalo,” Staal said. “As a player, I was lucky enough to get a glimpse of what makes the city such a special place and a terrific sports town.”
As for his responsibilities, Staal will do whatever is asked of him as the franchise looks to make a much-needed return to the postseason.
“I was fortunate to be on so many successful teams, and I hope I can lean on some of those experiences to help the organization moving forward”, said Staal. “I’m thankful to Kevyn for giving me this opportunity, and I’m eager to lend my experience to help in any way I can.”
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