Buffalo Sabres’ home opener and what to expect this upcoming season

This past week on Thursday, Oct. 12, the Buffalo Sabres took on the New York Rangers in their home opener at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo. While it wasn’t the outcome Sabres fans had hoped for, there were still a lot of positives amidst the disappointments.

The Sabres had a whole arena full of fans, with a few Rangers supporters scattered about, for a sold-out game. To start the night, a tribute video was made for Rick Jeanneret and his 51 years of announcing for the Buffalo Sabres. Jeanneret, unfortunately, passed away in August of this year leaving behind a legacy and a name that hockey fans everywhere will remember. The KeyBank Center also hosted the Buffalo Bills with quarterback Josh Allen, tight end Dawson Knox, wide receiver Gabe Davis, and safety Damar Hamlin to hype up the Sabres crowd.

While the Sabres have an abundance of young talent with lots of scoring potential, they were unable to pull through against the Rangers and fell 5-1. Many of the Sabres’ top players were quiet and nowhere to be found throughout the game. The lone Sabres goal was scored by center JJ Peterka on the power play, assisted by defenseman Owen Power, who just signed a massive 7-year, $58.5 million extension contract.

It was a fast-paced, physical game for both teams. The Sabres outhit the Rangers, 22-15, with left-wing Jordan Greenway and defenseman Connor Clifton leading the pack as physical presences on the ice. Defenseman Rasmus Dahlin had a highlight-worthy, “old-school” hip check on Ranger center Filip Chytil. On the other hand, New York had an elite defensive performance as they held Buffalo to a single goal with Igor Shesterkin between the pipes. 

Many were quick to blame rookie goalie Devon Levi for the Sabres’ loss, however, it was the mix of turnovers and few shots on the net that turned out to be fatal for Buffalo. Levi had 26 saves in his eighth National Hockey League (NHL) start. 

Rookie left wing Zach Benson made the Sabres’ opening roster for his NHL debut in the matchup, as well. Benson played well, with productive offensive zone shifts, proving himself as a solid player. Despite his size, Benson didn’t shy away from physical battles, especially with Rangers’ defenseman Jacob Trouba. If Benson continues playing the way he did in the opener, he’ll be a great addition to the Sabres in his rookie season. 

Although it wasn’t the greatest start to the season, if Buffalo Sabres fans are patient and trust the process, the men in blue and gold are sure to bounce back. This home opener was a learning experience and there’s no doubt that the Sabres are still serious contenders. 

Buffalo has rebuilt their core with great players signed through 2030, like centers Tage Thompson and Dylan Cozens, and defensemen Owen Power, Rasmus Dahlin, and Mattias Samuelsson. It’s clear that both management and the players are looking to shed their title as holders of the longest-active playoff appearance drought. Considering they came close to ending the drought last season, it’s obvious that the Sabres are on a mission and fully intend to execute in the coming seasons.

Thumbnail Photo courtesy of Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images