The Buffalo Sabres are having a standout season, and it looks like their journey won't be stopping when the regular season wraps up in 10 games. Heading into Thursday's matchups, the Sabres' magic number was down to nine. This number decreases with every point they earn or every point lost by the first team outside the playoff picture.
But the Sabres aren't just eyeing a playoff spot; they're leading the Atlantic Division with a three-point cushion over the Lightning and are tied with the Hurricanes at 96 points. However, both of those teams have games in hand, with the Lightning having two and the Hurricanes one.
As we approach the season's thrilling conclusion, here are five predictions that could unfold:
Tage Thompson Aims for 40 Goals Once Again
Earlier this season, Tage Thompson seemed well on his way to breaking 40 goals for the third time in his career. Pre-Olympic break, he had 30 goals in 57 games, but post-Olympics, he's managed just six in 15 games.
Despite the slowdown, Thompson is showing signs of heating up again, netting two goals in the last four games. The Sabres could certainly use his scoring touch, and with a little push, he could hit that 40-goal mark.
Rasmus Dahlin Eyes a Career-High in Points
While Thompson's scoring has dipped, Rasmus Dahlin has been on a tear. Before the Olympics, Dahlin had 48 points in 53 games.
Since then, he's added 17 points in 15 games, sporting an impressive +17 rating. With five points in his last four games, Dahlin is on the brink of setting a new career-high.
His current best is 73 points from the 2022-23 season, and with 65 points now, he could reach 75 if he maintains his pace.
Owen Power Joins the Double-Digit Goal Club
The Sabres' defense has been a key factor in their success, with Dahlin and Mattias Samuelsson leading the charge. Samuelsson has hit a career-high with 12 goals, and Owen Power is not far behind.
Power, the former first-overall pick, has eight goals this season, with four coming in March. If he keeps up this scoring surge, he could easily hit double digits by season's end.
Ryan McLeod Aims to Stay on Top in Short-Handed Goals
Ryan McLeod currently leads the NHL in short-handed goals with five, but his lead is slim. Four other players are nipping at his heels with four goals each.
McLeod has been a crucial part of the Sabres' penalty kill, capitalizing on opponents' mistakes. With more opportunities ahead, McLeod could add another goal to maintain his lead in this category.
Buffalo Sabres Push for Division Glory with 50 Wins
The Sabres head into their final 10 games with a 44-20-8 record, leading the division with 96 points, three ahead of the Lightning. Although the Lightning have a better points percentage and games in hand, the Sabres' schedule looks promising.
With six home games and four away, including matchups against teams outside the playoff race, they have a solid shot at reaching 50 wins. Achieving this would position them well to clinch the division for the first time since the 2009-10 season, potentially finishing with 108 points.
The Sabres are on the brink of something special, and these final games will be crucial in shaping their playoff destiny.