Dave Hynes

Lore & Background

Hynes' time with the Sabres coincided with some of the most electric hockey in franchise history, including the high-scoring offensive displays that earned the team its nickname. He worked alongside color commentators to break down plays for a growing fanbase, establishing a broadcast style that prioritized clarity and enthusiasm. Even after leaving the play-by-play chair in 1980, his legacy remained etched in the memories of fans who grew up listening to his calls on WGR radio and local television.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium was thick with anticipation as the crowd roared for Perreault. Behind the glass, Dave Hynes adjusted his headset, his voice steady despite the chaos around him. 'Here comes the French Connection!' he called out, his words carrying over the din of skates on ice and bouncing pucks. In that moment, the city's hopes were riding on a single pass, and through Hynes' voice, every fan in Buffalo felt connected to the magic unfolding before them.

Reader's Guide

The atmosphere during Dave Hynes' era was defined by the intimate, cavernous feel of the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, where fans sat just steps away from the action. The 'Aud' was a cathedral of hockey, with its distinctive architecture and echoing acoustics amplifying every slap shot and goal horn. Rituals were simple but passionate: fans would gather before games in the concourse, sharing stories and wearing their new Sabres jerseys with pride. Hynes' voice became part of this ritual, a familiar presence that guided fans through the highs and lows of each season. The team integrated deeply into Buffalo's identity during this time, becoming a source of civic pride in a city seeking renewal. The Sabres were more than a sports team; they were a symbol of hope, and Hynes was the narrator of their story, weaving the club's early triumphs into the fabric of Western New York.

Did You Know?

• Hynes broadcast during the era of the 'French Connection' line of Gilbert Perreault, Rick Martin, and René Robert.
• His broadcasts originated from the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, known as 'the Aud.'
• Hynes' voice was heard on WGR radio and local television during the team's formative years.