BREAKING NEWS: Buffalo Sabres head of the coach Lindy Ruff submitted the resignation letter to the founder with reasons….Read more

In a stunning turn of events, longtime Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff has submitted his resignation to the team’s founding leadership, citing personal reflection and organizational direction as key reasons for his departure.

Ruff, who returned to the Sabres in 2023 after previously coaching the team for 16 seasons (1997–2013), issued a formal letter early Monday morning to team founder Seymour H. Knox III’s family representatives, expressing his intent to step down effective immediately.

“After deep consideration and heartfelt discussions with my family, I believe it is time to pass the torch,” Ruff wrote in his statement. “My love for this franchise is unwavering, but it’s clear that new leadership is needed to guide this team forward.”

The Sabres organization confirmed receipt of the letter and released a short statement:

“We thank Coach Ruff for his immense contributions to the Buffalo Sabres, both past and present. His leadership, integrity, and passion for the game will always be a cornerstone of this franchise.”

📉 Declining Performance and Internal Tensions

Sources close to the team report that Ruff had grown increasingly frustrated with front-office decisions, roster imbalances, and inconsistent player development during the 2024–25 season. Despite early playoff hopes, the Sabres finished just outside the wild card spot, prompting internal review discussions that may have influenced Ruff’s choice.

Insiders also cite creative differences between Ruff and key members of the player development staff, as well as a desire from ownership to transition toward a more analytics-driven coaching approach.

🏒 Legacy Sealed

Ruff leaves behind a legacy that includes over 700 career wins, multiple playoff appearances, and a trip to the 1999 Stanley Cup Final. His return in 2023 was widely hailed as a homecoming and a chance to bring veteran leadership to a young, evolving roster.

🔍 What’s Next?

While no interim coach has been named yet, assistant coach Marty Wilford is rumored to be under serious consideration.

Ruff is expected to speak publicly later this week