Regier's journey into the administrative side of hockey began with the New York Islanders, where he served in various capacities. He initially joined the Islanders as an assistant coach and later moved into the front office. His time with the Islanders provided him with valuable experience and insight into the operations of an NHL team, laying the groundwork for his future roles.
In 1997, Regier was appointed as the general manager of the Buffalo Sabres, a position he held for 16 years. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the team's operations, including player acquisitions, trades, and draft selections. Regier's approach to team building was often characterized by a focus on developing young talent and making strategic trades to enhance the team's competitiveness.
Under Regier's management, the Sabres experienced several periods of success. The team reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999, where they faced the Dallas Stars in a memorable series that ended in a controversial overtime goal in Game 6. Although the Sabres did not win the championship, the run to the finals was a highlight of Regier's career and demonstrated his ability to assemble a competitive roster.
Throughout his time with the Sabres, Regier navigated the team through various challenges, including changes in ownership and financial constraints. He was known for his patient and methodical approach to building the team, often opting for long-term development over short-term gains. This strategy sometimes drew criticism from fans and analysts who desired more immediate success, but it also allowed the Sabres to maintain a level of competitiveness over the years.
Regier's tenure with the Sabres came to an end in 2013 when he was relieved of his duties as general manager. His departure marked the conclusion of a significant chapter in the team's history, as he had been one of the longest-serving general managers in the NHL at the time. Despite the ups and downs during his time with the Sabres, Regier's influence on the team was undeniable, having shaped the roster and organizational structure over nearly two decades.
After leaving the Sabres, Regier continued his career in hockey management by joining the Arizona Coyotes as a senior vice president and assistant general manager. In this role, he brought his extensive experience to a new organization, contributing to the Coyotes' efforts to build a competitive team.
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