Trade Details
• For Utah: JJ Peterka (RW)
• For Buffalo: Michael Kesselring (D) and Josh Doan (RW)
New Contract
Peterka was scheduled to become contract-free on July 1, but Utah decided quickly to sign him to a five-year, $38.5 million contract, with an average annual value of $7.7 million. The deal will keep Utah’s team and budget stable long-term.
JJ Peterka – The 23-year-old winger from Germany had a breakout year last season, recording a game-high 68 points (27 goals, 41 assists) in 77 games. In four seasons with Buffalo, he has amassed 150 points (67 goals, 83 assists) in 238 NHL games, averaging 0.63 points per game.
Utah’s emerging young star
Peterka joins a promising young core that includes Logan Cooley, Dylan Guenther and Daniel Butt – who recently signed a three-year entry-level deal in May. Utah’s forward line and attack have become much stronger with Peterka’s arrival.
What Buffalo gets in return
• Josh Doan (23) – Finished last season with 19 points (7 goals, 12 assists) in 51 games. He is set to become an RFA this coming offseason.
• Michael Kesselring (25) – Had a career-high 29 points (7 goals, 22 assists) in 82 games. His current cap hit is $1.4 million, and he will also become an RFA next year.
Both players are young, giving Buffalo an extra option.
Conclusion
• For Utah- If Peterka keeps up his uptrend, the Mammoth could become a serious playoff contender in the near future.
• For Buffalo- The Sabres now have two players to strengthen both their defense and goal-scoring line. The NHL Draft and free-agency are just around the corner, and this big trade could provide a fresh start for both franchises.
