Former Buffalo Sabres forward Eric Staal has joined the team as special assistant to the general manager, a newly created role within the organization.

The 18-year NHL veteran will report directly to GM Kevyn Adams and will assist in all aspects of the hockey department, including scouting and direct involvement with players and prospects.

“As I looked for ways to enhance our existing staff, I wanted to add somebody to our group that has a fresh perspective and the direct experience of winning at all levels of hockey,” Adams said. "Eric was one of the first people I thought of when I originally became general manager, so it is fitting that he is the first addition to our organization this offseason. He has done it all as a player and I know his experience and knowledge will be invaluable to our team as we look to take the next step."

Staal joined the Sabres via a trade from the Minnesota Wild in September 2020. He was then traded to the Montreal Canadiens in March 2021. Throughout his career, Staal played 1,365 career NHL games for the Sabres, Wild, Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, New York Rangers and Florida Panthers.

“Although it was short, I loved my time in Buffalo and as a player I was lucky to get a small glimpse of what makes the city such a special place and a terrific sports town,” Staal said. “Throughout my career I was fortunate to be on so many successful teams and I hope I can lean on some of those experiences to help the organization moving forward. I’m thankful to Kevyn for giving me this opportunity and I’m eager to lend my experience to help in any way that I can."

Staal was selected second overall in 2003 by the Carolina Hurricanes and won the Stanley Cup with the team in 2006.