I stand corrected.
https://buffalonews.com/entertainment/buffalos-high-tv-ratings-for-hockey-dont-translate-into-big-boost-for-nhl/article_4f22eb94-8702-59e9-9b05-149086c4a03d.html
Buffalo is actually important for the NHL. The largest US TV ratings for all games, not just the Sabres. The league didn't want to lose its best market just as a new TV deal was being negotiated.