New Buffalo Sabres owner commits to fans

BUFFALO, N.Y., Feb. 22 (UPI) -- New Buffalo Sabres owner Terrence Pegula in his introductory news conference Tuesday made an emotional commitment to bring the Stanley Cup to the city.

Pegula, appearing before reporters for the first time since purchasing the Sabres from Thomas Golisano, broke down in tears while confessing his fan's love of the team and hero worship of NHL Hall of Famer and 1970s Buffalo great Gilbert Perreault, who was present at the event, the Buffalo News reported.

Saying he has been a fan since 1975, Pegula promised to do whatever he could to bring a championship to the team, which has never claimed a Stanley Cup in its 41-year history.

"The Buffalo Sabres' reason for existence is to win the Stanley Cup," Pegula said. "We will aspire to be the best in the league at finding, developing and keeping players in the Buffalo Sabres family."

The new owner expressed support for Sabres Coach Lindy Ruff and General Manager Darcy Regier and introduced former Pittsburgh Penguins executive Ted Black as the team's new president, the News said.