The Buffalo Sabres have officially traded 23-year-old forward JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth, ending prolonged speculation regarding the restricted free agent’s future. In return, Buffalo receives winger Josh Doan and defenseman Michael Kesselring. Utah also locked in Peterka with a five-year contract extension worth $7.7 million annually, underscoring their commitment to building a competitive core around young talent.
Peterka Brings Scoring Punch to Utah Amid Speculation Surrounding Buffalo Departure Decision
Utah GM Bill Armstrong expressed excitement over acquiring Peterka, calling him a “highly skilled, creative, young forward” who strengthens the team’s offensive lineup. Coming off a 68-point season (27 goals, 41 assists), Peterka is expected to address Utah’s scoring struggles, as the team ranked just 21st in goals per game last season.
His speed, offensive instincts, and growing power-play impact make him a valuable addition to the Mammoth’s roster.
JJ Peterka (NHL)While rumors swirled about Peterka’s desire to leave Buffalo, Sabres GM Kevyn Adams declined to confirm whether a trade request was made. He did, however, note that exit interviews with Peterka were “positive and honest.” Ultimately, the trade suggests a mutual understanding between the team and player that a change of scenery might benefit both sides, especially given Buffalo’s ongoing playoff drought since 2011.
Sabres Add Youth, Cap Flexibility While Utah Invests in Star-Powered Offensive Future
In exchange, Buffalo received promising assets in Doan and Kesselring. Doan, still on his entry-level contract, brings offensive upside, while Kesselring provides depth on defense with a right-handed shot and top-four potential. Their combined salaries are significantly lower than what Peterka would have commanded in arbitration, giving the Sabres both flexibility and developmental opportunity.
Peterka’s new $7.7 million AAV contract makes him the second-highest-paid player on Utah’s roster, behind defenseman Mikhail Sergachev. The move signals Utah’s intent to build around a young, dynamic core. For Peterka, it’s a fresh start with a team eager to ascend in the NHL hierarchy, and for Buffalo, it’s a strategic shift toward balancing cap space with youthful potential.
