The Buffalo Sabres on Friday announced forward Jack Eichel will wear No. 9 on his jersey starting during the 2018-19 season.
"For a long time, the number 9 has always been a part of my identity as both a person and as a player," Eichel said. "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."
For fans that currently own an official-licensed Eichel jersey with the No. 15, the Sabres Store will offer a $49 credit toward the purchase of a new adult Eichel No. 9 jersey, or $29 toward the purchase of a youth jersey. Starting Monday, July 9, jerseys can be exchanged exclusively at the Sabres Store, which is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. For more information, fans can call the store at 716-855-4140.
Eichel (age 21, 6'2", 206 pounds) has worn the No. 15 since joining the Sabres when he made his NHL debut in 2015-16. During his three-year NHL career, the North Chelmsford, Massachusetts, native has compiled 177 points (73 goals, 104 assists) in 209 career games.
