Lou Lamoriello was recently seen at Buffalo Niagara Airport, sparking speculation about a potential role with the Buffalo Sabres following reported discussions with the team. Could this be a second chance for both sides?
As the Sabres look to restructure their front office for next season and support GM Kevyn Adams, Lamoriello’s name has surfaced as a possible Senior Advisor. While some believe his airport sighting was related to renewing his NEXUS pass for easier cross-border travel, others suspect it may have involved a follow-up meeting with the team.
After missing the playoffs, the New York Islanders parted ways with the 82-year-old Lamoriello, ending his seven-year stint with the club. With Ken Holland recently joining the LA Kings, few experienced GM candidates remain, and Lamoriello might not be pursuing another full GM role.
Buffalo, stuck in a cycle of instability with three GMs in 11 years and the NHL’s longest active playoff drought (last appearing in 2011), is clearly searching for a new direction.
Lamoriello has made it known he’s only interested in positions that allow him significant involvement in day-to-day operations. A Senior Advisor role might not offer that, but an Assistant GM position could be a better fit.
A recent report noted that Assistant GM Jason Karmanos may be on his way out after missing his exit interview and seeking opportunities elsewhere. Despite his success developing Buffalo’s prospect system and helping draft NHL-ready players, he may be frustrated after being passed over for the GM role.
Lamoriello could potentially step into that Assistant GM spot, bringing operational influence and helping shape the team’s future, much like he did with the Maple Leafs’ current core. If that happens, he may be in line to eventually succeed Adams as GM, potentially reshaping the Sabres’ long-struggling franchise.