The Utah Mammoth have made a significant splash in the early stages of the 2025 NHL offseason, acquiring forward JJ Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres in a three-player trade. The deal sees the Mammoth send defenseman Michael Kesselring and forward Josh Doan to Buffalo in exchange for the budding star winger.

Peterka, a restricted free agent coming off a career year, was reportedly unwilling to re-sign with the Sabres, prompting Buffalo to seek a trade. The 23-year-old German winger is coming off a season where he scored 27 goals and 68 points in 77 games.

For the Mammoth, the acquisition of Peterka addresses a need for a top-six offensive presence. While the team was expected to pursue options like Mitch Marner or Sam Bennett in free agency, Peterka provides a younger, long-term solution. His offensive prowess was notable this past season, where he ranked fourth in the NHL in Offensive Goals Above Replacement, trailing only Connor McDavid, Nikita Kucherov, and Leon Draisaitl. While his defensive game needs improvement, his offensive potential is undeniable.

Peterka's arrival in Utah creates an exciting dynamic on the wings, potentially forming a strong partnership with Dylan Guenther. The Mammoth, who are slated to pick fourth overall in the upcoming NHL Draft, are clearly aiming to accelerate their rebuild by adding young, talented players.

The Sabres, in return, acquire Kesselring and Doan. Kesselring is a defenseman who played a career-high 82 games for Utah last season, contributing seven goals and 29 points. Doan, son of Coyotes icon Shane Doan, is a forward who posted 7 goals and 19 points in 51 games for the Mammoth. These additions provide Buffalo with depth and potential for future development as they continue their own retooling process; the Sabres hold the ninth overall pick in the upcoming draft.

The trade also includes an extension for Peterka with the Mammoth organization, solidifying his future with the team. While the specifics of the extension have not been fully disclosed, it signals Utah's commitment to Peterka as a key piece of their long-term plans. Some reports project a possible seven-year contract with a cap hit around $7.8 million.

This move marks a significant moment for both franchises. The Mammoth gain a dynamic young forward with top-line potential, while the Sabres acquire assets to bolster their roster and continue building for the future. With Peterka in the fold, the Mammoth are signaling their intent to compete and become a force in the Western Conference.