The Buffalo Sabres seemed to be on the verge of a breakthrough when they won four out of five games last month, but the optimism quickly fizzled out as they’ve now lost six of their last seven games, landing them in last place in the Eastern Conference. With just 14 points (5-6-4 record), the Sabres have tied for the third-fewest points in the NHL, and their playoff hopes are rapidly fading. According to MoneyPuck’s odds, Buffalo now has only a 10.4% chance of ending its historic playoff drought, which has become the longest in league history.
Sara Civian, NHL analyst for Bleacher Report, isn’t surprised by the Sabres’ most recent collapse, calling them “frauds” in her review of the league’s 32 teams following the first month of the 2025-26 season. Civian warned fans not to be fooled by the team’s early success, adding that Buffalo didn’t do enough in the offseason to change its fortunes.
“We hope you didn’t let those early home games fool you into thinking this year would be different for the Sabres, who didn’t do much in the offseason to make this year any different,” Civian wrote. “We don’t know what that says about the other teams quite yet, but we know it means the Sabres are on fraud alert.”
Buffalo’s struggles have only worsened as the team continues its four-game road trip, which includes tough matchups with the Utah Mammoth, Colorado Avalanche, and Detroit Red Wings. The Sabres are in danger of letting another season slip away as they face a series of difficult games.
The Excuses Are Wearing Thin
The Sabres have offered a variety of excuses for their poor form, citing injuries, unlucky offensive finishing, and working hard but not catching a break. While there’s truth to some of these explanations,
Buffalo’s injury woes have been particularly challenging, decimating their forward group. The team’s underlying metrics suggest that, despite their poor record, they’ve been more competitive than the standings reflect. However, these explanations won’t appease a frustrated fanbase that has witnessed the team fail to qualify for the playoffs since 2011—a staggering drought in a league where half of the franchises make the postseason every year. The fans, who have been loyal despite years of failure, are growing tired of hearing the front office explain away the team’s consistent struggles.
“Too many injuries? General manager Kevyn Adams should have signed more depth over the summer, or he should be ultra-aggressive on the early trade market right now,” Civian continued. “Not enough finishing luck? Start driving the crease and scoring more dirty goals instead of relying on perimeter shots to go in, even if they did find the net in prior years. No rewards for hard work? This is the NHL. Every team is working hard.”
What the Front Office Has to Say
Kevyn Adams, General Manager of the Sabres, acknowledged the pressure on the team but stressed that the excuses need to end. “We know the pressure is on, and we have to do better. Injuries and bad luck have played a role, but that’s not an excuse. We’re evaluating every part of this roster, and changes will be made if necessary. This team has the talent to compete, but we need to find that consistency,” Adams said.
Don Granato, the Sabres’ head coach, also expressed frustration with the team’s inconsistency, stating, “We can’t keep relying on excuses. The players have to take responsibility for their performances. It’s frustrating, but we’ve seen glimpses of what we can do when we put it all together. Now it’s about doing that on a consistent basis and finding a way to turn things around.”
Jack Eichel, former Sabres captain now with the Vegas Golden Knights, also weighed in on Buffalo’s struggles, saying, “I know the Buffalo fans are loyal, but they deserve better. It’s tough to see them go through another season like this. They’ve got talent, but consistency and leadership are key. I hope they figure it out soon.”
Hope Isn’t Lost Yet, But Time Is Running Out
While Buffalo’s season isn’t technically over yet, the renewed wave of criticism has sparked a realization that the team needs to make some serious changes to keep its playoff dreams alive. Even a modest winning streak could see the Sabres climb up the Eastern Conference standings, but as Civian put it,
As the Sabres’ season teeters on the brink, the pressure is mounting on the team’s front office to make the right moves and shake up a roster that has shown little promise. Whether Buffalo can climb out of the basement of the Eastern Conference will depend on quick, decisive action to turn the tide before it’s too late.
“11 years, countless memories, and one unforgettable Game 7. Kyle Hendricks, your legacy as the heart of the Cubs will forever resonate.”
After an incredible 11 seasons with the Chicago Cubs, Kyle Hendricks, affectionately known as “The Professor,” bids farewell. His name will forever be etched in Cubs history, especially for his unforgettable performance in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series, a moment that helped bring the Cubs their long-awaited championship.
From his unassuming demeanor to his masterful pitching on the mound, Hendricks was the definition of consistency and poise. As a fan favorite and key contributor to the Cubs’ success, especially during their championship run, Hendricks’ impact goes beyond his stats—he’s been the heart of this team, a player who gave it all for the city and its fans.
Class is out of session for Hendricks, but his legacy will never be forgotten. Cubs fans will always remember “The Professor” for his brilliance, his calm in the storm, and his invaluable contributions to one of the greatest moments in Chicago sports history.