The Buffalo Sabres announced a series of front-office hirings and promotions, including Milan Lucic joining as a pro scout after his retirement from the NHL.

Derek Dorsett will serve as a forward development coach, bringing recent development coaching experience with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The report detailing the announcements was filed on June 30, 2026, by AP’s John Wawrow.

The organization emphasizes a return to a model that blends experienced hockey executives with veteran players, a strategy led by GM Jarmo Kekalainen.

Roest, a former NHL forward, helped lead Team Canada in a 2025 international tournament held in Switzerland and brings extensive pro and AHL experience.

Lucic’s recent playing career included a productive stint with the Fife Flyers in the EIHL and a brief AHL appearance with the Springfield Thunderbirds.

Lucic last played in the NHL during the 2023-24 season with Boston, marking his return to pro hockey in a scouting role.

Roest’s background includes 244 NHL games with Detroit and Minnesota and 286 points in 309 AHL games, underscoring his veteran pedigree.

Lucic’s career began with the Bruins and included stops with the Kings, Oilers, Flames, and a brief Bruins return before retirement.

Buffalo Sabres’ announcement and Lucic’s appointment were published through the team’s official channels on June 30, 2026.

The hire has drawn mixed emotions among fans but is framed as a move to leverage hard-nosed leadership for the Sabres’ future.

The front-office shift is presented as a step to mold the next generation while acknowledging the franchise’s recent competitive history.