Buffalo Sabres’ decision to trade JJ Peterka sent shockwaves across the NHL, not just because of the move itself—but because of what they didn’t take in return. On paper, shipping off a 27-goal scorer with 68 points last season in exchange for Utah Mammoth’s Josh Doan, Michael Kesselring, and a prospect left many scratching their heads.
The discontent among Sabres fans only grew when reports emerged that other franchises had offered far more substantial returns for the 22-year-old winger. Among the rumored proposals were two first-round picks, roster players, and even current NHL stars—suggesting Buffalo passed up on deals that could’ve reshaped their roster far more dramatically.
As Peterka settles into his five-year, $7.7 million-per-season contract with the Mammoth, questions loom over whether Buffalo made the right call. Inside sources now reveal the Sabres had offers on the table involving elite-level talent, including Jordan Kyrou and Noah Dobson.
What did the Sabres turn down for Peterka?
According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, the Sabres had multiple enticing trade offers that were far superior to the package they ultimately accepted from Utah.
JJ Peterka #77 with the Buffalo Sabres shoots the puck against the Philadelphia Flyers at KeyBank Center during the second period at KeyBank Center on April 17, 2025 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Rebecca Villagracia/Getty Images)
“There was one team who offered two first-round picks plus two roster players,” Seravalli reported. “I think the St. Louis Blues had Jordan Kyrou on the table. I think at one point in time, the New York Islanders were talking about Noah Dobson.”
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Both players would have added immediate, proven value to the Sabres’ roster. Kyrou, 27, has tallied three straight 30-goal seasons, notching over 70 points in two of them. Dobson, 25, is considered a perennial Norris Trophy candidate, with at least 39 points in each of the past four campaigns.
Why did Buffalo choose Kesselring and Doan?
Buffalo opted for a younger, more long-term approach by acquiring Josh Doan, Utah’s No. 7 prospect, and 25-year-old Michael Kesselring, a defenseman with NHL upside. However, critics argue the return lacks immediate impact and fails to match Peterka’s current level of production.
Seravalli summarized the fan reaction by saying: “You smash all those things together and you go, ‘Kesselring and Doan?’ It’s not getting anyone excited in Western New York.”
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Did the Sabres make a mistake trading JJ Peterka for Utah’s package?
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With Peterka now gone and the Sabres’ rebuild continuing under Kevyn Adams, time will tell if this move was a misstep—or part of a larger strategy Buffalo is still putting into motion.
