JUST IN: The Buffalo Sabres receive a warning from Mike Harrington on the JJ Peterka situation. He instructs the Sabres in his message to never stop telling him that he is a part of…

The Buffalo Sabres are being urged to tread carefully with one of their most promising young stars, JJ Peterka, as longtime Buffalo News columnist Mike Harrington issued a passionate message to the team amid swirling offseason speculation. His warning? Never stop making Peterka feel like a vital part of the organization — both on and off the ice.

In a post-game column that has quickly gained traction among Sabres fans, Harrington stressed the importance of the 23-year-old German winger to Buffalo’s rebuild and future contention. While no official trade rumors have emerged involving Peterka, Harrington’s commentary seemed to respond to what he views as a worrying pattern of mishandling young talent within the organization.

“JJ Peterka is not just a piece of the puzzle — he is the puzzle,” Harrington wrote. “His speed, vision, and finishing touch are foundational elements of what this franchise is trying to build. The Sabres must never stop telling him — through their actions, through their coaching, through their contracts — that he is a part of this team’s core identity.”

Peterka had a breakout season in 2024–25, posting 27 goals and 32 assists for a career-high 59 points while earning praise for his two-way game and maturity. Alongside other young talents like Dylan Cozens and Owen Power, Peterka is viewed as a cornerstone of the franchise’s long-awaited turnaround.

Harrington’s warning also hinted at past organizational missteps — possibly referencing situations like Jack Eichel’s messy exit or the team’s inability to fully develop previous high picks. His message seemed to emphasize a need for culture change: one that reinforces loyalty, clear communication, and consistent investment in players’ development.

“Peterka is the kind of player who doesn’t just show up — he shows out. But you need to make sure the love is mutual,” Harrington added. “Buffalo can’t afford to let another young star feel underappreciated or overlooked.”

While the Sabres’ front office has made strides in player development and team culture in recent seasons, Harrington’s call serves as a pointed reminder that perception and trust are just as crucial as stats and contracts in retaining talent.

So far, the Sabres have not publicly responded to Harrington’s message, but fans on social media have echoed the sentiment, with many calling Peterka “untouchable” in any future trade talk.

As Buffalo enters a pivotal offseason — aiming to end the NHL’s longest active playoff drought — the way they treat rising stars like Peterka could prove just as important as any free agency signing or draft pick.

Bottom line: The message is clear. JJ Peterka isn’t just a young talent. He’s part of the Sabres’ identity. And if Buffalo hopes to finally return to playoff relevance, that’s something they can’t afford to forget.