Numerous outlets – including the originator of the rumor here – are reporting Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula has serious interest in purchasing the AHL’s Rochester Americans. So much so that stories are circulating about the Sabres already having signed a non-binding letter of intent, i.e. a very big step forward toward an eventual sale.
We in Florida have reason to be interested, as such a transfer of ownership is likely the final nail in a rocky relationship between the Panthers and Amerks, a divorce which has been in motion for quite some time.
A Sabres/Americans reunification is a natural, as their long-time mutual past partnership – and of course geography – make such a move to be one in the very best interest of both parties.
An “out” clause is not believed to exist between Buffalo and current AHL affiliate Portland (which runs through the 2014 season), but if Florida – badly in need of an American League partner for next year – were to court the Pirates, a potentially seamless transition for all clubs is a possibility.
No telling what Panthers GM Dale Tallon may have up his sleeve, but it’s difficult to imagine this news came as a surprise.