"The NHL knows how to throw a party. The league has successfully turned its three marquee events — the All-Star Game, the draft and the Winter Classic — into must-attend bashes that last days instead of hours.

The Buffalo Sabres want in.

Team President Ted Black this weekend reiterated his desire to bring any and all of the galas to Buffalo as soon as possible. Sunday's All-Star Game in Scotiabank Place concluded a four-day run of hockey and fan-friendly festivities that had residents and visitors smiling, talking and pulling out their wallets throughout Ottawa.

"Hockey fans in Buffalo would embrace it," said Sabres forward Luke Adam, who took part in the event along with teammate Jason Pominville. "It would be special for people in the surrounding areas, so why not? It's been a fun weekend. The fans are what make these events.""