Buffalo Sabres Bring Back Eric Staal

Friday, May 09, 2025 ,
Buffalo Sabres forward Eric Staal gets ready for a faceoff during 2021 game.

The Buffalo Sabres are bringing back a familiar face in a new capacity, hiring former NHL forward Eric Staal as special assistant to general manager Kevyn Adams. 

In this newly created front office role, Staal will report directly to Adams and be involved in all facets of hockey operations—including player development and scouting.

Staal Returns With a Wealth of Experience

Though Staal played just 32 games for the Sabres during the shortened 2020-21 season, the veteran left a lasting impression—and clearly, the feeling was mutual. “Although it was short, I loved my time in Buffalo,” Staal said. “I was lucky to get a small glimpse of what makes the city such a special place and a terrific sports town.”

Adams emphasized that Staal’s championship pedigree and leadership made him a natural choice for the role. “Eric was one of the first people I thought of when I became general manager,” Adams said. “He’s done it all as a player, and I know his experience will be invaluable as we look to take the next step.”

A Decorated Career Rejoins a Rebuilding Team

Staal’s playing career spanned 18 NHL seasons, totaling 1,365 games, 455 goals, and 1,063 points. 

A member of the Triple Gold Club, he won a Stanley Cup with Carolina in 2006, Olympic gold in 2010, and a World Championship in 2007. Now 40, he’s stepping into an advisory role with a Sabres team eager to end a 14-year playoff drought.

While he’s officially hanging up the skates, Staal’s next chapter begins with a young Buffalo team full of promise. As he put it, “I hope I can lean on some of those experiences to help the organization moving forward.”

Photo Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

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