The future captain of the Buffalo Sabres has a new jersey number. Jack Eichel posted a couple of photos on his Instagram account hinting, and confirming, that he has changed his jersey number from #15 to #9.
He has worn his #15 for the past three years, but has opted to make the switch. #9 was his dad’s favorite number.
Eichel stated the following to the Buffalo news:
“For a long time, the number nine has always been a part of my identity as both a person and as a player. The opportunity opened up to switch, and I felt it was the right time to make the change as I begin the next phase of my career as a Sabre.”
Previously, the number was taken by Evander Kane, and before that, Derek Roy, Steve Ott, and Vaclav Varada. Eichel will be the 19th Sabres player to wear #15.
Starting Monday, jerseys can be exchanged exclusively at the Sabres Store, which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, fans can call the store at (716) 855-4140.
— John Vogl (@BuffaloVogl) July 6, 2018
What do we think #Sabres fans? #9 or #15 for Jack? Which do you prefer?
— BuffaloHockeyCentral (@BHCdotcom) July 6, 2018