The Buffalo Sabres are on the brink of a long-awaited breakthrough, poised to end the NHL's longest playoff drought. For over a decade, fans have been yearning for this moment, and it’s finally within reach.
The journey has been nothing short of thrilling. The standings are tilting in Buffalo’s favor, and their magic number is steadily dropping. It seems like this could truly be the year they clinch a playoff spot.
Back in December, the Sabres were sitting at 11 regulation wins and 14 losses. But a dramatic overtime victory against the Oilers sparked a hot streak that propelled them to 40 regulation wins before hitting 20 losses. Now, in the crucial stretch run, they just need to maintain their momentum to secure a playoff berth.
And as we know, once a team makes it to the postseason, the slate is wiped clean, and anything can happen.
Buffalo is buzzing with anticipation for home playoff games. The clinch is tantalizingly close.
Here's how the Sabres are faring as they inch closer to the playoffs:
Buffalo Sabres Magic Number Tracker
As of the March 27 matchup against the Detroit Red Wings, the Sabres' magic number stands at 11 points. Each win or overtime loss chips away at that number, while other teams’ missed opportunities further bolster Buffalo’s chances.
Sabres Playoff Odds
Heading into the game against the Red Wings, the Sabres boast an impressive 99.98% chance of making the playoffs, according to MoneyPuck.com. With 96 points, they’re leading the Atlantic Division and are tied with the Carolina Panthers atop the Eastern Conference.
Buffalo Sabres Remaining Schedule
- March 27: vs. Red Wings
- March 28: vs. Kraken
- March 31: vs. Islanders
- April 2: at Senators
- April 4: at Capitals
- April 6: vs. Lightning
- April 8: at Rangers
- April 9: vs.
Blue Jackets
- April 13: at Blackhawks
- April 15: vs. Stars
The Sabres have a solid chance to clinch their playoff spot by early April.
Sabres' Playoff Drought
Buffalo has missed the playoffs for the past 14 NHL seasons.
Last Playoff Appearance
Their last playoff game was a tough Game 7 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers on April 26, 2011, in the Eastern Conference first round.
The Sabres are on the cusp of turning the page on a challenging chapter and starting a new, exciting playoff journey.