JJ Peterka Traded to Utah Mammoth in Bold NHL Roster Shift
In a major offseason move, the Buffalo Sabres have traded forward JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth in exchange for defenseman Michael Kesselring and forward Josh Doan. The deal reshapes both teams’ rosters heading into next season.
As part of the trade, Peterka signed a five-year, $38.5 million contract with Utah, locking in an average annual value of $7.7 million. The 23-year-old was set to become a restricted free agent on July 1 after finishing his entry-level deal signed back in June 2021.
Peterka’s Breakout Season
Peterka had a standout year for Buffalo, posting a career-high 68 points (27 goals, 41 assists) across 77 games. Drafted 34th overall in 2020, he has racked up 150 points (67 goals, 83 assists) in 238 career NHL games.
With his strong offensive instincts and speed, Peterka is expected to become a core piece in Utah’s rebuild.
What Utah Gives Up
In return, Buffalo acquires Michael Kesselring, a 25-year-old defenseman who played all 82 games for Utah this season. He contributed 29 points (7 goals, 22 assists) and brings solid two-way play to the Sabres’ blue line. Kesselring, originally drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2018, has 53 points in 156 NHL games.
Kesselring has one year remaining on his current deal, signed with Utah in June 2024.
The Sabres also gain Josh Doan, a promising 23-year-old forward. Doan recorded 19 points (7 goals, 12 assists) in 51 games for Utah last season. A 2021 second-round pick by Arizona, he has 28 points in 62 total games. Like Kesselring, Doan is on the final year of his entry-level contract signed in March 2023.
A Bold Move for Both Franchises
This trade signals a shift in strategy for both teams. Utah secures a young scoring star in Peterka, while Buffalo adds depth and versatility with Kesselring and Doan.
With Peterka now under a long-term deal, Utah is betting big on his upside as a consistent offensive force. Meanwhile, Buffalo strengthens its roster with reliable contributors who could be key in supporting a growing core.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more NHL trade alerts, contract updates, and player movement this offseason.
