The Buffalo Sabres are considering replacing general manager Kevyn Adams, sources told The Athletic’s Matthew Fairburn and Tim Graham.
The team will finish their six-game road trip Sunday against the Seattle Kraken. Sources told Fairburn and Graham that a final decision on Adams’ future is expected after Buffalo returns home.
Adams has been with the Sabres since 2009. Buffalo promoted him to general manager in June 2020. His current contract runs through the 2026-27 season.
The franchise shares the longest active playoff drought among major North American sports teams with the NFL’s New York Jets. Buffalo hasn’t reached the postseason for 14 straight years.
The Sabres currently sit 27th in the NHL and at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
Under Adams’ leadership, Buffalo has finished last, 24th, 20th, 22nd, and 26th in league standings across five seasons. The consistent poor performance has intensified pressure on the front office.
Jarmo Kekalainen joined Buffalo’s front office as a senior advisor in May. The former Columbus Blue Jackets general manager has made a strong impression within the Sabres’ organization, sources told Fairburn and Graham.
Kekalainen served as GM in Columbus for 11 years before being fired in February 2024.
Adams has made several major roster moves during his tenure. He’s traded Jack Eichel, Sam Reinhart, Brandon Montour, Dylan Cozens, and J.J. Peterka. He also signed free agent Taylor Hall and hired then fired coach Don Granato.
The organization brought back Lindy Ruff as head coach under Adams’ direction.
Buffalo has secured core players Rasmus Dahlin, Tage Thompson, and Owen Power with long-term contracts. However, several key roster decisions loom this offseason.
Alex Tuch becomes a pending unrestricted free agent at season’s end. He’s considered one of the top remaining players available on the market.
Restricted free agents Zach Benson, Josh Doan, and Michael Kesselring also need new contracts.
The timing of any front office changes could significantly impact these contract negotiations and the team’s overall direction heading into next season.
