Sabres send forward JJ Peterka to Mammoth for pair of players

The Mammoth have also agreed to a five-year extension with Peterka.

The move marks a significant acquisition for Utah, which continues to build a competitive roster. Peterka, 23, is coming off a breakout campaign in 2024–25, tallying 27 goals and 41 assists. Known for his speed and skill in transition, Peterka brings top-line potential and offensive upside, and there were reportedly several teams linked to trade interest in the forward.

The Mammoth — who chose their team name via a fan vote that drew over 850K participants — have made it clear they intend to compete early. Adding a young, cost-controlled winger like Peterka would fit their strategy perfectly, providing another foundational piece alongside players like Logan Cooley and potentially Matias Maccelli, who himself has been the subject of trade rumors this week. 

It’s unclear if adding Peterka increases the likelihood that Maccelli is dealt.

With Peterka on the go, focus will now shift to what happens with defenseman Bowen Byram. He, too, is being talked about as a possible star on the way out of Buffalo.