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Kekäläinen Makes First Move as Sabres GM, Firing Associate GM Jason Karmanos

The shake-up signals an organization-wide review, with goaltending decisions plus potential trades looming.

Overview

  • Owner Terry Pegula replaced Kevyn Adams with Jarmo Kekäläinen earlier this week, installing the former Columbus executive as Buffalo’s new general manager after a stint as a senior adviser.
  • Kekäläinen dismissed associate GM Jason Karmanos, who also oversaw AHL Rochester, with interim duties to be handled in-house until a replacement is named.
  • In his introductory remarks, Kekäläinen said everyone is under evaluation and expressed belief the team can still reach the playoffs this season.
  • Buffalo beat the Flyers 5-3 for a fourth straight win to move to 15-14-4, with Alex Lyon starting during the run and Lindy Ruff acknowledging the pressure on staff performance.
  • Reporting points to an impending call on the three-goalie rotation, with Elliotte Friedman indicating Lyon is “probably the guy” who could be moved once the holiday roster freeze lifts.