Buffalo Sabres right wing JJ Peterka (77) skates during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, in Buffalo, N.Y.
The Buffalo Sabres have kickstarted their offseason overhaul with a blockbuster trade. Forward JJ Peterka is heading to the Utah Mammoth in exchange for winger Josh Doan and defenseman Michael Kesselring. The high-profile NHL trade was confirmed late Wednesday, with both teams revealing the swap of rising stars.
Utah wasted no time securing their new asset. Shortly after the deal, the Mammoth signed Peterka to a five-year, $38.5 million contract.
Utah Mammoth Land Offensive Power in JJ Peterka
JJ Peterka, just 23, has shown tremendous offensive promise over the past two seasons. He scored 27 goals and recorded a career-high 68 points in 77 games this season. Known for his quick release and offensive creativity, Peterka joins Utah at a time when the franchise is building a youthful, aggressive team.
“There’s a lot of excitement around our group,” said Mammoth President Chris Armstrong. “Adding a player of Peterka’s calibre helps us take another step forward.”
The trade helps cement Utah’s future. It adds a proven scorer to their core without sacrificing their top draft pick — the No. 4 overall — in the upcoming NHL Draft.
Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring Head to Buffalo
In return, the Sabres receive two promising players: winger Josh Doan and defenseman Michael Kesselring. Both bring size, potential, and a hunger to prove themselves.
Josh Doan, also 23, is the son of former Coyotes captain Shane Doan. Last season, the rookie forward tallied 19 points, including seven goals. While his stats don't yet match Peterka's, Doan brings grit and a strong two-way game.
Michael Kesselring, 25, had a breakout season with seven goals and 29 points — both career highs. At 6-foot-5, he adds size and toughness to Buffalo’s blue line. His physical presence and improving offensive play were on display during the U.S. team's gold medal run at the World Championships in May.
Sabres Aim to Toughen Up After Disappointing Season
Sabres GM Kevyn Adams made it clear: the team needs to get tougher and more competitive. This trade, he believes, addresses both needs.
“Michael and Josh bring qualities we’re looking for,” Adams said. “We’re working to build a team that’s hard to play against.”
The Sabres ended their 2023-24 campaign ranked 14th in the Eastern Conference. It marked their 14th straight season without a playoff berth — the longest active drought in the NHL.
With coach Lindy Ruff back for his second stint, pressure is mounting for quick results.
JJ Peterka: A Rising Star with Trade Rumors Behind Him
Peterka’s name had been circulating in trade rumors for weeks.
Although Adams refused to confirm whether the forward asked to be moved, Wednesday's trade confirmed that change was inevitable.
Peterka, originally from Germany, was a second-round pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. He made his Sabres debut during the 2021-22 season and scored 28 goals in 2023-24. Over his 238 NHL games, Peterka has posted 67 goals and 150 points.
Despite his upside, the Sabres felt the need for change outweighed keeping him in the fold.
Utah’s Youth Movement Gains Momentum
For Utah, this deal signifies a clear push toward offensive growth. Peterka now joins a talented group of young forwards, signaling a new era for the Mammoth.
“JJ brings skill, energy, and creativity,” said Mammoth GM Bill Armstrong. “He will strengthen our scoring and be a key part of our future.”
Though Utah missed the playoffs after a late-season surge, they now look poised to rise quickly in the Western Conference standings.
What’s Next for Buffalo?
With the NHL Draft and free agency looming, the Sabres aren’t done. Defenseman Bowen Byram is rumored to be a possible trade piece. GM Adams, entering his sixth season, is under pressure to reshape the roster and deliver results.
This NHL trade could be the first of many big moves in Buffalo’s offseason playbook.
