Multiple teams are pursuing JJ Peterka as trade talks intensify around the Buffalo Sabres restricted free agent, according to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli.
The New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Tampa Bay Lightning, Vancouver Canucks, and Chicago Blackhawks have all expressed legitimate interest in acquiring the 23-year-old forward.
Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams previously rejected trade inquiries for Peterka before March’s deadline. However, he’s now accepted that moving the young forward may be inevitable, Seravalli reports.
Peterka posted 27 goals and 68 points in 77 games this past season.
His production ranked him fourth league-wide in Evolving-Hockey’s offensive goals above replacement metric for 2024-25. Only Leon Draisaitl, David Pastrnak, and Connor McDavid finished ahead of him.
Buffalo maintains approximately $23.2 million in cap space to re-sign Peterka if they choose to keep him, per PuckPedia.
The timeline creates additional pressure for the organization. Peterka becomes eligible for offer sheets from other teams if he doesn’t sign with Buffalo by July 1.
Buffalo selected Peterka 34th overall in the 2020 draft. He’s recorded 150 points in 238 career NHL games since making his debut.
The Sabres have missed the playoffs for 14 consecutive seasons, adding context to their willingness to consider trading a young asset like Peterka.
