The Sabres have called a news conference for 11 a.m. today to announce a contract extension for coach Lindy Ruff, a source told The Buffalo News.
Sabres owner Terry Pegula, General Manager Darcy Regier and Ruff are expected to be an attendance. Ruff's contract expired at the end of the season, and bringing him back was one of Pegula's top priorities going into the offseason. Reaching an agreement was considered a formality.
Ruff has been behind the bench since the 1997-98 season and is the winningest coach in team history. He has reached the Stanley Cup playoffs eight times in his 13 seasons, including four trips to the conference finals and one to the finals. He has long stated his desire to bring the first Stanley Cup to Buffalo.
The Sabres' hierarchy also is expected to address other issues regarding their plans going into the offseason. They're expected to have their busiest summer in years. Pegula has lifted all financial restraints with the idea they can win the title in the next few years.
---Bucky Gleason
