René Robert

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French Connection

About René Robert

René Robert: The Quiet Hero of Buffalo Hockey

Buffalo, New York, has always been a city that appreciates hard work, teamwork, and passion—qualities that René Robert embodied throughout his storied career. Born on December 31, 1948, in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Robert became a household name in Buffalo as a key part of the legendary French Connection. His contributions to the Buffalo Sabres from 1972 to 1979 not only elevated the team’s competitiveness but left an enduring legacy that the city still cherishes today.

The Spark of the French Connection

René Robert’s path to NHL stardom wasn’t straightforward. After brief stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins, he finally landed in Buffalo in 1972 via a trade for Eddie Shack. It would turn out to be one of the most impactful trades in Sabres history.

Paired with center Gilbert Perreault and left winger Rick Martin, Robert helped form The French Connection—one of the most iconic scoring lines in NHL history. The trio was celebrated for their incredible speed, precision passing, and unmatched chemistry on the ice. Together, they turned the Sabres into a true force in the league during the 1970s.

While the spotlight often fell on his linemates, Robert’s role as a playmaker and clutch scorer was vital. His ability to deliver precise passes and his knack for finding the back of the net made him the perfect complement to Perreault and Martin. Robert’s consistency and unselfish play allowed the French Connection to dominate opposing defenses, securing their place in hockey history.

A Career Filled with Achievements

Robert’s impact in buffalo was immediate. He led the Sabres in goals during his first full season with the team, netting an impressive 40 goals. It was a sign of what was to come. Over the eight seasons he spent in Buffalo, Robert recorded 222 goals, 330 assists, and 552 points—ranking him among the top scorers in franchise history.

His 1974-1975 campaign marked a career peak. That year, he shattered records by becoming the first right winger in Sabres history to notch 100 points in a single season. His 40 goals and 60 assists helped propel the Sabres to their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance. The series against the Philadelphia Flyers featured one of Robert’s defining moments—the “Fog Game.” With fog swirling inside the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, Robert scored the game-winning goal in overtime of Game 3, etching his name in Sabres lore.

For his outstanding season, he was named to the NHL’s Second All-Star Team, solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite right wingers. His consistency extended to the postseason as well—Robert scored 22 playoff goals and racked up 39 total playoff points during his time with the Sabres, proving time and again he could deliver under pressure.

A Legacy Beyond the Ice

René Robert’s contributions went beyond what he achieved on the stat sheet. While his linemates Martin and Perreault often garnered more attention, Robert’s quiet leadership and unselfish play endeared him to teammates and fans alike. He embraced the working-class ethos of Buffalo, embodying the city’s values of humility, determination, and community spirit.

Off the ice, Robert gave back to the Buffalo community in meaningful ways. He regularly participated in charity events, lending his time to causes like the American Cancer Society and Children’s Hospital. His dedication to both the game and the greater good made him one of the most respected figures in Sabres history.

Recognition for his achievements came in the form of his induction into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 1994, alongside his French Connection linemates. His number 14 was retired by the Sabres in 1995, joining Martin and Perreault’s numbers in the rafters. Together, their banners serve as a timeless tribute to the line that defined Buffalo hockey’s golden era.

Remembering René Robert

René Robert passed away in 2021, but his legacy in Buffalo continues to shine brightly. The French Connection statue outside KeyBank Center stands as a testament to the role he played in building the Sabres’ identity. For fans who witnessed his dazzling plays or the younger generation hearing about his feats, Robert is a symbol of what makes Buffalo sports special.

A playmaker, a clutch scorer, and a man devoted to his community, René Robert epitomized what it means to be a Buffalo icon. From his moments of brilliance on the ice to his generous contributions off it, he left an indelible mark on the city he called home and the team he elevated to greatness.

For Sabres fans, the memory of #14 skating alongside Martin and Perreault will forever be a source of pride and inspiration. René Robert was more than a player—he was part of the heart and soul of Buffalo hockey.