BREAKING NEWS: Former Buffalo Sabres Head Coach Don Granato Who Was Fired Has Now Called Back to Represent Kevyn Adams as General Manager of Buffalo Sabres…details more.

In a shocking turn of events just months after his dismissal, former Buffalo Sabres head coach Don Granato is making a return to the organization—this time in a new capacity. Sources close to the team reveal that Granato has been tapped by Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams to serve as a special advisor and representative in the front office, sparking widespread reactions across the NHL community.

Granato, who was let go in April 2024 after three seasons at the helm, was initially seen as a casualty of the team’s prolonged playoff drought. His firing paved the way for the return of veteran coach Lindy Ruff, who was brought in to restore the Sabres’ competitive edge and winning culture.

However, according to league insiders, Adams remained “deeply appreciative” of Granato’s developmental work with the Sabres’ young core—including Tage Thompson, Rasmus Dahlin, and Owen Power—and sought to bring him back in a role that could leverage his hockey IQ and rapport with players.

“There’s a strong level of trust between Don and Kevyn,” said one team source. “This isn’t about undoing the past—it’s about maximizing the future.”

Granato is expected to advise Adams on player development, scouting strategy, and organizational planning. He will not be involved in coaching decisions or game-day operations, but will instead serve as a behind-the-scenes architect of sorts—a liaison between the hockey operations department and the front office.

The Sabres have not officially confirmed the appointment, but a press release is expected in the coming days.

If confirmed, the move could signal a bold new era of collaboration in Buffalo’s front office, as the Sabres continue their quest to end the NHL’s longest active playoff drought.