Sabres Trade JJ Peterka to Utah Mammoth in Blockbuster Deal
The Buffalo Sabres have considerably altered their roster, dealing forward JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth in exchange for right-handed defenseman Michael Kesselring and forward Josh Doan.The move comes less than a week before Peterka was slated to become a restricted free agent, and includes a five-year, $7.7 million per season contract extension with the Mammoth for the young star.
The trade marks a notable shift in direction for the Sabres, who just months ago appeared committed to retaining their homegrown talent.According to a league source, the decision ultimately hinged on Peterka’s desire for a change of scenery and uncertainty surrounding a long-term contract extension.
A Rising Star on the Move
Peterka, 23, established himself as a key offensive contributor for Buffalo, setting a career-high 68 points this season. He’s recorded back-to-back seasons with at least 27 goals, demonstrating a consistent scoring touch. Originally drafted 34th overall in 2020 by the Sabres, the German forward progressed through the ranks, posting 68 points in the AHL before transitioning to the NHL where he tallied 12 goals and 20 assists in his rookie season (2022-23). His production continued to climb,reaching 28 goals and 50 points in 2023-24,culminating in his breakout 68-point campaign.
JJ Peterka’s NHL Career Stats:
- 2022-23: 12 goals, 20 Assists
- 2023-24: 28 Goals, 50 Points
- 2024-25: 27 Goals, 68 Points
Initially, the Sabres were firm in their stance against trading Peterka. As one senior official stated last week, the team “didn’t want to move the 23-year-old winger.” However,the situation evolved as it became clear Peterka was seeking a new environment. “we have a plan,” Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams acknowledged during a recent press conference, hinting at the eventual trade.
Why the Change of Heart for Buffalo?
Peterka’s value stemmed from his age, offensive output, and remaining four years before unrestricted free agency. The market for wingers was particularly competitive this summer, with limited high-impact options available after players like mitch marner and Nikolaj Ehlers.
Winger Market Analysis:
The scarcity of high-impact wingers this summer significantly increased Peterka’s trade value. Teams were willing to pay a premium for young, skilled players at this position.
the sabres, while reluctant to part with another homegrown player, recognized the need to address other areas of their roster. This trade follows a similar move earlier this year, where Dylan Cozens was sent to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for center Josh Norris. “By trading him, the Sabres were able to address other needs on their roster and have made another meaningful change to the core of their roster,” a source close to the team explained.
What Do the Mammoth Gain?
The Utah Mammoth acquire a dynamic offensive player in Peterka, who thrived in a top-line role with Buffalo and on the team’s power play. While a strong skater capable of creating offense, he’s still developing consistency. Twenty-four of his 68 points came in the final 22 games of the season after the Sabres were eliminated from playoff contention. Peterka himself has acknowledged the need to improve his body language and defensive reliability. The Sabres controlled only 46 percent of the expected goals when he was on the ice at five-on-five last season.
Peterka’s Strengths and Areas for Improvement:
- Strengths: Offensive creativity, strong skating, power play presence.
- Areas for Improvement: Consistency, body language, defensive reliability.
Sabres Bolster Defense and Future Flexibility
Buffalo’s return centers around Michael kesselring, a 25-year-old, 6-foot-5, 220-pound defenseman with the potential to play top-four minutes.Kesselring, currently under contract for $1.4 million before becoming a restricted free agent, brings a physical presence and “nastiness” that Buffalo has been seeking. “Players like Kesselring aren’t easy to acquire,” one analyst noted, highlighting his value in a market where quality right-handed defensemen are scarce.
The Sabres also add forward Josh Doan, the 23-year-old son of former NHL star Shane Doan. Doan recorded 19 points in 51 games for Utah last season and is known for his strong forechecking and all-around game. He is entering the final year of his entry-level contract.
Beyond the players acquired,the Sabres also create significant cap space,saving nearly $2.5 million for next season. This flexibility is crucial as they navigate contract negotiations with restricted free agents Bowen Byram, Ryan McLeod, Jack Quinn, Jacob bernard-Docker, and Devon Levi. Shipping out their second-leading scorer is a calculated risk, but one Adams believes will ultimately improve the team’s overall outlook as they strive to build upon last season’s 79-point finish.
(Photo of JJ Peterka: Bill Wippert / NHLI via Getty Images)
