- 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 ...
History of the Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres are an iconic NHL team with a rich history. Founded in 1970, they have been part of the league ever since and have become one of the most successful franchises in hockey. Over their 50 years as members of the NHL, they’ve had some incredible highs and heartbreaking lows that make them one of the most beloved teams to watch.
One highlight was when they won back-to-back division titles during the 1974–75 and 1975–76 seasons under Hall Of Fame coach Scotty Bowman--the only time this has happened for any expansion franchise at that time! During those two seasons, Buffalo went to game sevens in both Stanley Cup finals but unfortunately lost each series by just a single goal each year. Despite these defeats, it still stands out as one if not THE most excellent runs for any new franchise joining professional sports leagues like NFL or MLB.
In recent years however, things haven't gone so well for The Sabres, who missed out on playoffs five times from 2011 until 2016, including three consecutive last-place finishes, which led to significant changes within management personnel—most notably hiring Jason Botterill as general manager back in 2017—and eventually resulted in better performances throughout 2018/19 season where players like Jack Eichel were able to lead The Sabers towards securing 8th seed playoff spot before being eliminated by Boston Bruins 4 games 1 during first round match-ups. Although disappointing, this showed signs of potential growth within the organization - something fans hope will continue over the next few years!
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.
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
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.
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