NHL Rumor Roundup: Buffalo Sabres Get Offers for JJ Peterka As he has become a subject of speculation among NHL analysts, several teams have included him in their…

As the NHL offseason heats up, the Buffalo Sabres find themselves at the center of speculation surrounding rising forward JJ Peterka. The 23-year-old winger, fresh off a breakout season, has reportedly drawn interest from multiple teams looking to bolster their top-six forward group. Sources close to the situation say the Sabres have received several preliminary trade offers for Peterka, though no deal appears imminent.

A Breakout Season in Buffalo

Peterka, a second-round pick in 2020, enjoyed a strong 2024–25 campaign, posting 26 goals and 58 points in 81 games. His combination of speed, skill, and hockey sense has made him one of the most promising young wingers in the Eastern Conference. Analysts have praised his development curve and his ability to contribute in all situations, including on the power play and penalty kill.

“Peterka has the makings of a top-line winger,” said NHL analyst Elliotte Friedman on a recent podcast. “He’s still young, still improving, and teams are starting to realize his ceiling might be higher than initially thought.”

Sabres’ Stance: Listening, Not Shopping

Despite the trade buzz, league insiders suggest the Sabres are not actively shopping Peterka. However, with Buffalo aiming to take a significant step forward and end their 14-year playoff drought, GM Kevyn Adams is believed to be open to exploring any move that would accelerate the team’s competitive timeline.

“Teams call on Peterka because he’s young, productive, and under team control,” said an anonymous league executive. “But it would take a serious offer for the Sabres to consider moving him.”

Peterka has one year left on his entry-level contract and will be a restricted free agent next summer. His affordable cap hit makes him an even more attractive asset for contenders or teams with limited cap flexibility.

Who’s Calling?

While no teams have been confirmed, speculation has linked the Los Angeles Kings, Calgary Flames, and New Jersey Devils to Peterka. All three are seeking top-six scoring help and have the prospect capital or NHL-ready assets to make a compelling offer.

For the Kings, Peterka would be a natural fit alongside their speedy, youth-driven forward corps. The Flames, in the midst of a retool, may see Peterka as a foundational piece. The Devils, already rich with young talent, could use him to add scoring depth without sacrificing long-term control.

What Could a Trade Look Like?

If the Sabres were to entertain moving Peterka, the return would need to be substantial — potentially including a top-four defenseman, a first-round pick, or a comparable young forward. Given Buffalo’s focus on strengthening the blue line and stabilizing its goaltending, any package would likely address those needs directly.

Still, insiders caution that a deal is far from certain. “This isn’t a fire sale or anything close to it,” Friedman noted. “Buffalo holds the cards, and they’re in a position to wait for the perfect offer — if it ever comes.”

Final Thoughts

JJ Peterka’s name entering the trade rumor mill is more a reflection of his rising value than any intent by Buffalo to move on. With his stock soaring and the Sabres at a crossroads, his situation will be one to monitor closely as the offseason progresses.

Whether he remains part of the long-term core or becomes a centerpiece in a blockbuster trade, one thing is clear: JJ Peterka is no longer flying under the radar.