Pegula: We're gonna win the Stanley Cup

BUFFALO (WIVB) - Sabres fans will have to wait 17 days for their new owner.  Speaking with News 4 Sports Director, Terry Pegula says he expects to take control of the team on February 22nd.  That's when the NHL Board of Governors should approve his $189 million dollar purchase of the team from Tom Golisano.

  >>  The Sabres announced the sale last week

  >>  Watch Golisano's press conference on the sale

Pegula tells Murphy that he's excited about becoming the Sabres owner, and believes the team will have success.  

  >> Read more about what Pegula told Murphy, including that he "loves" Lindy Ruff as coach

"We're gonna win the Stanley Cup.  Then, you know what, we're gonna win it again," he told Murphy. 

By taking over on February 22nd, Pegula will have nearly a full week of control before the NHL trade deadline on the 28th. 

The approval by the NHL Board of Governors is expected to come easily, as the league has already met with Pegula and researched their background.  His meeting last weekend at the All Star Game with the Executive Committee laid the groundwork for the approval.  The Board of Governors do not need to meet to approve the sale, they can vote by fax.

Pegula is expected to remain silent about his plans for the team until he officially takes control.