Pegula committed to winning Stanley Cup

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A new age of ownership, already filled with emotion and a commitment to win Lord Stanley's Cup. Terry Pegula's passion is generating renewed promise for the team and the fans.

There is over-the-top enthusiasm about the new owner of the Buffalo Sabres. Terry Pegula came in as advertised: a dyed in the wool Sabres fan, a billionaire who's ready to spend what it takes to bring a Stanley Cup to Buffalo. It was a Sabres-fan dream come true at the arena on Tuesday.

The Atrium at HSBC Arena was packed with current Sabres, former Sabres, the media and Sabres sponsors and supporters. And they all heard what they wanted to hear from the Pennsylvania billionaire who just bought the team.

>> See the full press conference and Q&A session here

>> Pegula's family promises to be involved in the team

>> Pegula says Regier and Ruff are staying

>> One-on-one interview with Pegula here

Terry Pegula said, "I wanna run the team to win the Stanley Cup, so whatever that involves, I guess we gotta figure that out. If I want to make some money, I'll go drill a gas well. I don't need to make it in the hockey business.

Pegula made it obvious that this is an emotional investment for him. He introduced his entire family and talked about their interest in hockey. He was a Sabres season ticket holder for 18 years and he teared up when he looked over and saw Hall of Famer Gilbert Perrault to his right.

"Some of the old faces. Where's Perreault? You're my hero," said Pegula.

Gilbert Perreault said, "Kind of surprised for me. After so many years, but you know, like I say, it's a brand new day, it's a brand new owner."

The new owner has put some new management in place, including former Penguins Vice President Ted Black. He's the Sabres new team President.

Black said, "My job is to implement Terry's vision and also work with Darcy and Lindy to make sure that that vision is implemented and spent wisely. We're not just going to willy nilly spend money, but what Terry's saying is the chains are off, and I want to win a Stanley Cup. First and foremost, he wants to win it for this community. It's starving for a winner."

"Starting today, the Buffalo Sabres' reason for existence will be to win the Stanley Cup," added Pegula.

Pegula's the real deal. Sabres officials say they told Pegula Monday night that Gilbert Perreault will be in town for Tuesday's news conference, and Pegula asked, "Can I meet him?"