Mike Peca hired by Sabres organization

In case you missed the news earlier this week, the Buffalo Sabres announced that former NHLer Mike Peca has been hired by the organization to serve as an assistant coach for the AHL's Rochester Americans underneath Amerks head coach Seth Alpert.

“Michael brings a wealth of experience as both a player and coach and will be a tremendous addition to our coaching staff in Rochester,” said Amerks GM Jason Karmanos in a prepared statement. “He will play an integral role in the development of our prospects, and we look forward to him making an immediate impact for our organization.”

“I am excited to add Mike to our coaching staff,” said Amerks head coach Seth Appert. “He will add to the competitive culture we are trying to build in Rochester and will certainly be a great role model and teacher for our young prospects as they learn what it takes to earn the right to be a Buffalo Sabre.”

“I couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity in Rochester, being a part of Seth’s staff and having the privilege of working with the great young talent that will be coming through the pipeline,” said Peca. “The responsibility of preparing the Sabres' young talent for the NHL is an important one and I very much look forward to taking it on with Seth and Mike.”

Peca, 47, spent the 2020-21 season as a player development coach with the Washington Capitals, working primarily with the players on the taxi squad. He, of course, spent five seasons with the Sabres from 1995 - 2000 and was an integral part of the team that went to the 1999 Stanley Cup Final.