Sabres’ Downfall
In the 1985-86 and 1986-87 seasons, Andreychuk consistently put up solid offensive numbers as he had a combined 61 goals and 99 assists. But, Buffalo couldn’t find their groove and finished fifth in the Adams division back-to-back seasons.
Their problems can be accredited to mid-season coaching changes. Bowman was fired in the midst of the 86-87 season and replaced by Ted Sator as head coach. In addition, Sabres’ net-minder, Tom Barrasso’s shaky play in net tarnished the Sabres’ chances.
In 1998, the Sabres won the draft lottery for the 1988 NHL Entry Draft and selected Pierre Turgeon with their number one selection. With Turgeon joining the Sabres, they were able to get back to the playoffs. Unfortunately, Andreychuk and the Sabres still had trouble getting far into the playoffs. Their playoffs were cut short as the Bruins out-played them in the playoffs.
From 1998 to 1993, the Sabres’ Stanley Cup drought continued and they decided to move on from Andreychuk. The Sabres traded Andreychuk with Daren Puppa and first round pick in the 1993 draft in exchange for Grant Fuhr and a conditional fifth round pick in the 1995 draft.