Introduction: The Legacy of Jersey Numbers

As a passionate Buffalo Sabres fan, I've always been fascinated by the history and significance behind the jersey numbers of our beloved players. In this article, we will explore the topic of retiring jersey numbers and discuss which player's number the Sabres should consider retiring next. We will take a look at some of the most accomplished and influential players in the team's history, as well as a few wildcards who have left a lasting impact on the team and its fans.

The Current Retired Numbers

Before diving into the potential candidates for the next retired number, let's take a moment to appreciate the seven Buffalo Sabres who have already had their jersey numbers retired. These players include: Gilbert Perreault (#11), Rick Martin (#7), Rene Robert (#14), Tim Horton (#2), Danny Gare (#18), Pat LaFontaine (#16), and Dominik Hasek (#39). Each of these players made a significant contribution to the team's success and have earned their place in the rafters of KeyBank Center.

The Case for Dave Andreychuk

Dave Andreychuk, who donned the #25 jersey during his time with the Sabres, is a strong contender for having his number retired next. Andreychuk played 12 seasons with Buffalo and is currently the team's all-time leader in power-play goals, with an impressive 161. He is also ranked third in total goals scored (368) and fifth in points (804) for the team. Not only did Andreychuk have an impressive career on the ice, but he has also remained a beloved figure among the fanbase and the community since his retirement.

Considering Alexander Mogilny

Another player who could potentially have his jersey number retired by the Sabres is Alexander Mogilny, who wore #89 during his tenure with the team. Mogilny's impressive stats and incredible skill set make him a prime candidate for this honor. During his time with the Sabres, Mogilny scored a whopping 211 goals and 444 points in just 381 games. His 76-goal season in 1992-93 is still a franchise record and stands as one of the greatest individual accomplishments in team history.

Why Mike Ramsey Deserves a Nod

Mike Ramsey, who wore #5 throughout his 14 seasons with the Buffalo Sabres, is another player whose jersey number could be raised to the rafters. The defenseman played a crucial role in the Sabres' successes during the 1980s and was known for his strong defensive play and leadership qualities. Ramsey, a four-time NHL All-Star, was also a member of the famed "Miracle on Ice" 1980 U.S. Olympic team, further cementing his status as an all-time great.

Phil Housley: A Record-Setting Defenseman

Phil Housley's #6 jersey is another number that could potentially be retired by the Buffalo Sabres. Housley, a defenseman, spent eight seasons with the team and remains the highest-scoring American-born defenseman in NHL history. His 1,232 career points are nothing short of remarkable, and Housley's impact on the game during his time with the Sabres is undeniable. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015, further solidifying his legendary status in the hockey world.

A Wildcard: Rob Ray

Although his numbers may not be as impressive as some of the other candidates on this list, Rob Ray's dedication and grit during his time with the Sabres make him a fan favorite and a potential wildcard for jersey retirement. Ray, who wore #32, spent 13 seasons with the Sabres and is known for his tough, physical play and willingness to stand up for his teammates. His 3,207 career penalty minutes with the team are a testament to his hard-nosed style of play, and he remains an important figure in the Buffalo community today.

A Nod to the Future: Jack Eichel

While it may be premature to consider retiring Jack Eichel's #9 jersey, it's certainly not out of the realm of possibility for the talented young forward. Eichel has already made a significant impact on the Sabres and has the potential to become one of the all-time greats if he continues to develop and lead the team to success. It's worth keeping an eye on Eichel's career trajectory and considering his potential for jersey retirement down the line.

Conclusion: A Wealth of Talent and History

Ultimately, the Buffalo Sabres have been blessed with a wealth of talent and history throughout their existence. There are several deserving candidates for jersey retirement, and it's up to the team and its fans to decide which player's number should be immortalized next. Whether it's an all-time great like Dave Andreychuk or a wildcard like Rob Ray, the next retired number will continue to tell the story of the Sabres' rich history and tradition.