Eric Staal returns to Buffalo Sabres as special assistant to GM Kevyn Adams | NHL News
Eric Staal returns to the Buffalo Sabres, but this time not on the ice. The team announced that the former NHL star had come aboard as a special assistant to general manager Kevyn Adams. The new position enables Staal to bring his years of hockey experience and championship know-how to the Sabres’ future. Since retiring two years ago, the 40-year-old has contributed expertise, insight, and a championship pedigree to a club still seeking to end its extended playoff dry spell.
Eric Staal resumes with former teammate Kevyn Adams to assist Sabres’ future
Eric Staal’s return to the NHL is off the ice and into a suit. His relationship with Sabres GM Kevyn Adams traces back to their time together on the 2006 Carolina Hurricanes, the ones that raised the Stanley Cup. Now they are reunited in Buffalo with hopes of rebuilding a struggling franchise.Eric Staal’s new position will have him touch every aspect of the hockey department. It’s a hire intended to introduce a new perspective into the Sabres’ front office, which already has assistant general managers Jason Karmanos, Mark Jakubowski, and Jerry Forton. His award-studded resume boasts a Stanley Cup, an Olympic gold medal (2010), and a world championship (2007). Fewer players know more about winning than Staal, and the Sabres are banking on his experience to lend support where it’s most needed, ranging from guiding players to making input in front-office decisions.The Sabres have not made the playoffs in 14 consecutive seasons, an NHL record for consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance. Adams, in his fifth season as GM, has come under growing pressure to alter the direction of the team. Hiring Staal is not nostalgia alone, it’s about infusing a new perspective from a player who’s witnessed what it takes to win.
Veteran leader Eric Staal aims to inspire a team seeking its identity
Eric Staal is familiar with the city of Buffalo. He suited up for the Sabres for several games before being dealt to Montreal. Even though his player tenure in Buffalo was short-lived, he is returned now with a mission of long-term purpose to help shape the future of an inexperienced team that needs guidance.During his playing years, Staal spent 12 years with the Carolina Hurricanes where he emerged as one of the most esteemed people in the organization. He is one of just four players to have his number retired by the franchise. Now, he’d like to take what he’s gained during those years and apply it to the front office. Also Read: “It Isn’t About Me; It’s About The Teams I’ve Had”: Coach Lindy Ruff Registers 900th NHL Win As Buffalo Sabres Close Out Season Against Philadelphia Flyers
