The Buffalo Sabres have fired coach Don Granato after their NHL-record 13th consecutive season without a playoff appearance.
The Sabres announced the firing Tuesday, one day after their season-ending victory over the Lightning. Buffalo finished 39-37-6 with 84 points.
The Sabres also fired assistant coach Jason Christie and video coordinator Matt Smith.
“I would like to thank Don for his time in Buffalo and commitment to the Sabres organization,” Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams said in a statement. “He has been integral in the development of many of our players and has undoubtedly been the right coach to bring us to where we are now, but I felt it was necessary to move in a different direction at this point in time. My expectation is to be a consistent contender and unfortunately that goal has not been met.
“I would also like to thank Jason and Matt for their contributions to the team. This is not a decision I take lightly but know it is in the best interest of our team moving forward.”
The Sabres haven’t made the playoffs since 2010-11.
