Sabres trade rumors: JJ Peterka's future with the Buffalo in doubt as trade rumors intensify amid offseason buzz

JJ Peterka has rapidly blossomed into one of the NHL’s brightest young stars, but his time with the Buffalo Sabres could be nearing an unexpected end. Despite his breakout 2024–25 season, NHL insider Frank Seravalli reports that Peterka may be on the move this summer—whether Buffalo wants it or not.Drafted 34th overall in 2020, JJ Peterka has taken major strides in each of his first three seasons. After tallying 32 points in his rookie year, he climbed to 50 the next season, and then exploded for 68 points in 2024–25. That kind of production, especially at age 23, would usually signal a long-term core piece for any rebuilding franchise.However, Peterka’s future in Buffalo is far from guaranteed. Seravalli listed him as the top name on his latest trade board, and the speculation is gaining serious traction."There may be no better player available, period, on the trade market this summer – let alone one of Peterka’s age at 23, already a top-line producer," Seravalli wrote. "Embattled Sabres GM Kevyn Adams has said publicly that he has no designs on trading Peterka, but the sense is a change of scenery is in order."Multiple teams reportedly submitted substantial offers for Peterka at the trade deadline, but the Sabres stood firm. Now, with Peterka a pending restricted free agent, Buffalo may have less leverage—especially if an offer sheet materializes on July 1.Beyond contractual and trade factors, Seravalli revealed deeper concerns about player morale in Buffalo. "I think it's gone sideways in Buffalo for Peterka and a handful of other Sabres players," he said. "I think they're unhappy with the lack of progress, and it's hard to really squint and see light at the end of the tunnel as they've hit 14 consecutive seasons without the playoffs."Also Read: Jonathan Marchessault trade rumors: Nashville Predators could part ways with the all-star as part of offseason rebuildIf the Sabres do move JJ Peterka, they must demand a significant return. Letting a high-ceiling player walk for less than market value would only prolong the franchise’s playoff drought. One way or another, Buffalo’s handling of this situation could define their offseason—and their rebuild.