Jack Eichel Takes a Jab at his Former Team while Celebrating Stanley Cup Win

PUBLICATION

TJ Tucker
June 14, 2023 (6:30 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

It was pretty clear to anyone paying attention to the situation that the way Jack Eichel left the Buffalo Sabres wasn't ideal for either side. For Eichel, though, leaving the team that drafted him first overall has led to immediate success.

Golden Knight

Just two seasons after the trade that sent Eichel from Buffalo to Vegas, he lifted his first Stanley Cup last night in his very first appearance in the NHL playoffs. After celebrating, Eichel talked to reporters, and mentioned that the move made it enjoyable for him to come to the rink again, something that seemed to have disappeared with the Sabres.

"A lot of adversity, but coming here and being here with these guys everyday, it really changed my outlook on a lot of things. I started to really enjoy coming to the rink again. I obviously got my health back. I can't give the Golden Knights organization enough credit for allowing me to come in here, get a surgery and get back out." - Jack Eichel

The Surgery

Eichel's neck issues would eventually lead to his falling out with the Sabres and asking to be traded. Eichel wanted a fusion surgery that had never been done on anyone playing in the NHL before that came back to continue their career. With the final say, Sabres medical staff blocked the procedure, despite Eichel's surgeon insisting it was the best route to take for both him and the team. Eichel was very vocal about wanting to leave, and Buffalo made it happen.

Could it Have Happened in Buffalo?

It's hard to see Eichel lifting the Stanley Cup any time soon, if at all, if he had stayed in Buffalo. The Sabres are in a better spot as well, but that's partly due to assets received in the Eichel trade. Meanwhile, Vegas will likely continue to compete for the Cup for a few years yet, barring any major unforeseen circumstances.