At 73, John Davidson has agreed to serve as a senior advisor to the Buffalo Sabres, a move that underscores the club’s ambition to capitalize on its most successful season in over a decade.
The Sabres finished the 2025‑26 campaign with a 50‑23‑9 record, capturing the Atlantic Division title and ending a 14‑year playoff drought, a milestone that has reignited optimism in Buffalo.
Davidson’s résumé reads like a chronicle of transformation. He previously held the presidency of hockey operations for the St. Louis Blues, the Columbus Blue Jackets and the New York Rangers, each stint marked by dramatic turnarounds.
Davidson’s Vision for Buffalo
The hiring also reunites Davidson with Jarmo Kekäläinen, his former colleague from Columbus now serving as the Sabres’ general manager, and adds depth to a front office that already includes veteran executive Marc Bergevin.
Davidson, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009 after a distinguished playing career as a goaltender for the Blues and the Rangers, expressed enthusiasm about the franchise’s momentum and the passionate fan base.
He will work closely with Josh Flynn and the scouting department to refine player evaluation processes, drawing on his extensive experience in both on‑ice and administrative roles.
The Sabres hope Davidson’s proven ability to reshape rosters and culture will translate into sustained competitiveness, positioning the franchise as a perennial contender in the Eastern Conference.