BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Sabres are already hosting the NHL’s annual pre-draft scouting combine in each of the next two years. Now, they’re getting the 2016 draft.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman formally announced Buffalo’s selection at a news conference shortly before the Sabres’ home game against the Anaheim Ducks on Monday afternoon.

“Awarding the 2016 NHL draft to Buffalo honors the passion of its fans for our sports and reflects the commitment Terry and Kim Pegula to the Sabres and to Buffalo,” Bettman said, referring to the Sabres owners.

Bettman said that awarding the draft to Buffalo also builds on the growing buzz taking place in the city after the Pegulas completed their purchase of the NFL Buffalo Bills last week.

“They’re great owners,” Bettman said. “The fact that they have so invested themselves in Buffalo and the Buffalo sports scene is great news for the city.”

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