The Buffalo Sabres have relieved Jason Karmanos of his duties as associate general manager and Rochester Americans general manager, the latest change following new GM Jarmo Kekäläinen's hiring last week. Kekäläinen announced the move on Saturday, thanking Karmanos for his contributions.
Buffalo Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekäläinen, hired on December 15 after the dismissal of predecessor Kevyn Adams, announced another front office change on Saturday: the relief of Jason Karmanos as associate general manager for the Sabres and general manager for the AHL's Rochester Americans.
Kekäläinen issued the following statement: “Buffalo Sabres Associate General Manager/Rochester Americans General Manager Jason Karmanos has been relieved of his duties. We thank Jason for his contributions to the Buffalo Sabres and Rochester Americans and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
The move continues the Sabres' front office restructuring under owner Terry Pegula, aimed at building a more competitive organization after 14 straight seasons without playoffs.
In a recent interview, Kekäläinen—whose extensive NHL experience includes over a decade as Columbus Blue Jackets GM—reaffirmed his commitment to Stanley Cup contention. He referenced past aggressive trades in Columbus and shared personal reflections, including the recent passing of his father and his family's Finnish bakery roots. “If you firmly believe you have a chance to win the Cup... I think you got to do everything in your power to help the team to get through the finish line,” he said.
