Ellis named Sabres director of player development

The Buffalo Sabres today announced the team has named Matt Ellis director of player development.
Ellis, who played 356 games in the NHL over nine seasons, including 286 for the Sabres from 2009 until 2015, has spent the past four years working for the Academy of Hockey at LECOM Harborcenter. He started as a development coach and was named director in September 2019.

Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams originally hired Ellis at the Academy of Hockey.
"The traits that made Matt a successful NHL player are the same ones that have made him successful in player development in the years since," Adams said in a statement. "It's evident through his thorough planning and execution that Matt is passionate about developing young talent and our players will benefit from his approach to the game."
Ellis, a native of Welland, Ontario, also played for the Los Angeles Kings and Detroit Red Wings.
Throughout his career, Ellis played a leadership role in the Sabres developmental system, serving as captain of the Sabres AHL affiliate for three seasons in both Rochester and Portland.
Ellis also served as the head of coaching for the Buffalo Jr. Sabres beginning in April 2018. During his time with the organization, Ellis also coached several teams ranging from the 9U to 13U levels.