Lindy Ruff is set to embark on his second tenure as head coach of the Sabres, marking a return to Buffalo after his initial stint.
General manager Kevyn Adams officially confirmed Ruff’s hiring on Monday, following strong indications of his potential return due to his extensive NHL coaching experience.
Ruff previously helmed the Sabres from 1997 to 2013, notably leading them to their last playoff appearance. The decision to part ways with Don Granato came after the team missed the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season under his leadership.
Having most recently coached the New Jersey Devils for four seasons, Ruff’s tenure included a playoff run to the second round last year before his dismissal in March. Despite his efforts, the Devils fell short of postseason contention even after his departure.
During his tenure in Buffalo, Ruff steered the team to the playoffs eight times, highlighted by a memorable Stanley Cup Final appearance in 1999. However, the series’ outcome was marred by controversy surrounding Brett Hull’s disputed goal, famously known as the “No goal” game in Buffalo lore.
Following his departure from Buffalo, Ruff went on to coach the Stars from 2013 to 2017, adding to his coaching pedigree.
Buffalo’s prolonged playoff drought spanning 13 seasons remains the longest in the league, underscoring the team’s need for stability in coaching.
Ruff’s dismissal from the Sabres in the midst of the lockout-shortened 2013 season marked the beginning of a revolving door of coaching changes, with five subsequent coaches leading the team. Adams’ connection to Ruff dates back to his time as an assistant on Ruff’s staff in Buffalo in 2011 before his departure in 2013.
Beyond his coaching career, Ruff boasts a decade-long stint as a player with the Sabres from 1979 to 1989, during which he also served as the team’s captain.
