NHL Pressures Colorado High School Over Buffalo Sabres Logo

The NHL has raised concerns regarding a logo used by Smoky Hill High School in Aurora, Colorado, which resembles the Buffalo Sabres' iconic design. The school has utilized this buffalo head logo since at least 2001, although it has modified the colors to forest green and scarlet.

Due to a trademark dispute, the Cherry Creek School District has halted the sale of new merchandise featuring the logo while discussions with the NHL continue. Existing uniforms can still be worn as both parties seek a resolution. The NHL initially contacted the district about the logo in 2019, but discussions were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the issue resurfacing in 2026.

The NHL and the district have explored a royalty-free agreement that would permit the continued use of the logo, but no agreement has been finalized. If a resolution cannot be reached, Smoky Hill will retain its Buffalo nickname and colors while creating a new logo with input from the school community. The NHL's actions reflect its obligation to protect its trademarks, yet the decision to target a high school has drawn criticism.