The Buffalo Sabres history reflects decades of determination, growth, and passionate fan support in the NHL. From their debut in 1970 to countless unforgettable Buffalo Sabres game highlights, the team has built a strong identity. Legendary players, rivalries, and playoff runs have made the franchise a cornerstone of hockey culture and an essential part of NHL history.
Established
1970
City
Buffalo
League History
1970 – Present / National Hockey League
Team History
1970 – Present / Buffalo Sabres
Nickname
Sabres – The Buffalo Sabres have been a part of the National Hockey League since 1970, and their nickname has long been integral to the team's identity. The story behind the origin of this iconic moniker is one steeped in history and tradition.
Buffalo Sabres Origin
The name "Sabres" was chosen by then-owner Seymour Knox III as a tribute to French Canadian fur traders known for their speed, agility, and horseback riding while hunting buffalo in Western New York State during the 18th century. It was also meant to honor those brave individuals who helped shape early American culture, making it an apt choice for a hockey team based in Buffalo.
In addition to its historical significance, there is another reason why "Sabres" resonates with fans so profoundly: it perfectly encapsulates what makes up hockey - strength combined with speed - which are attributes that embody both teams' playing styles over time! This connection between past generations’ courage & skillful tactics paired with modern-day athleticism & strategy helps create an enduring legacy that will live on through future generations as well – something all sports fans can appreciate!
Championship
Stanley Cup 0
Arena
2017 - Present / KeyBank Center
2012 – 2016 / First Niagara Center
2000 – 2011 / HSBC Arena
1996 – 1999 / Marine Midland Arena
1970 – 1996 / Buffalo Memorial Auditorium
Owner
2011 – Present / Terrence Pegula
2003 – 2011 / Tom Golisano and Larry Quinn
2002 – 2003 / National Hockey League
1996 – 2002 / John Rigas
1970 – 1996 / Seymour Knox III and Northrup Knox
- 1970
- 2002
- 2011
Buffalo Sabres Team Formation
The Sabres, along with the Vancouver Canucks, joined the NHL in the 1970 – 1971 season. Their first owners were Seymour Knox III and Northrup Knox, scions of a family long prominent in Western New York, along with Robert O. Swados, a Buffalo attorney. Buffalo had a history of professional hockey. Wanting a name other than “bison,” which was common ...
Ownership Turmoil
In May 2002, John Rigas and his sons were indicted for bank, wire, and securities fraud for embezzling more than $2 billion from Adelphia. Rigas eventually was convicted and presently is appealing a sentence of 15 years in prison. The league took control of the team, though the Rigas family remained owners on paper. For a while, there were no ...
Terrence Pegula New Owner
On February 18, 2011, Terrence Pegula purchased Hockey Western New York LLC (the holding company that owns the Buffalo Sabres and the Buffalo Bandits of the National Lacrosse League) from previous owners Tom Golisano, Larry Quinn, and Dan DiPofi for $189 million. Terrence Pegula’s purchase made an immediate positive impact, with players, fans, and alumni invigorated by his investment in ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Buffalo Sabres History
The Buffalo Sabres history represents one of the NHL’s most iconic stories. Founded in 1970, the Sabres quickly became a staple in professional hockey, bringing excitement to every Buffalo Sabres game. Over more than five decades, the team has experienced thrilling highs and challenging lows, establishing fierce rivalries, especially with the Boston Bruins, which continue to energize fans today.
One of the defining chapters in the Buffalo Sabres history came during the 1974–75 and 1975–76 seasons. Under Hall of Fame coach Scotty Bowman, the Sabres won back-to-back division titles—the first expansion franchise at that time to achieve such a feat. In both years, Buffalo advanced to a decisive Game Seven in the Stanley Cup Finals but fell by a single goal each time. These intense moments helped shape the identity of every Buffalo Sabres game in the years to come.
In the years that followed, the Buffalo Sabres history included memorable runs led by legendary players such as Gilbert Perreault, Pat LaFontaine, and Dominik Hašek, whose stellar goaltending earned multiple Vezina Trophies. Despite facing difficulties between 2011 and 2016, including missing the playoffs five times and finishing last three consecutive seasons, management changes—most notably hiring Jason Botterill in 2017—set the stage for improvement. This shift brought fresh talent like Jack Eichel, who inspired fans with his leadership and scoring ability in many pivotal Buffalo Sabres game appearances.
Sabres Achievements
Throughout the Buffalo Sabres history, the team has reached the Stanley Cup Finals twice (1975 and 1999), leaving an indelible mark on NHL history. They have also produced multiple Hall of Famers and award winners, including Dominik Hašek, who became a cornerstone of the franchise with his unmatched goaltending.
Beyond individual accolades, the Sabres have built one of the NHL’s most passionate fan bases. Every Buffalo Sabres game continues to showcase a deep connection between the team and the city of Buffalo. With a focus on young talent and a new vision for success, the franchise looks ahead to returning to championship contention and adding even more memorable moments to the Buffalo Sabres history.
Retired Number
2 / Tim Horton
7 / Rick Martin
11 / Gilbert Perreault
14 / Rene Robert
16 / Pat LaFontaine
18 / Danny Gare
39 / Dominik Hasek
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history
