The 2024-25 season marks a critical juncture for the Buffalo Sabres. But the Sabres’ bottom line is just making the postseason. The franchise has endured a record-setting 13 straight seasons without a playoff appearance. As the team seeks to end this discouraging drought, several forces must align for a successful campaign.
Here are the five best-case scenarios that could propel the Sabres back to the postseason.
Best-Case Scenario 1: The Sabres Will Experience an Offensive Resurgence, with Thompson and Tuch Leading the Charge
The Sabres’ offense faltered big time during the 2023-24 season. The team plummeted from third in the NHL in scoring to a dismal 22nd. The once-potent power play also dropped to 27th, a far cry from its top-10 ranking in previous years. For the Sabres to return to playoff contention, their offense must rediscover its scoring touch.
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The performances of Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch are critical to this resurgence. Both players regressed last season, but they have the potential to bounce back in a big way. With his towering presence and lethal shot, Thompson could become a consistent 30-goal scorer again. At the same time, Tuch’s blend of speed and power makes him a dynamic threat on the ice. If these two can return to their 2022-23 form, the Sabres’ offense could again become one of the most dangerous in the NHL.
The departure of Jeff Skinner, who was bought out after a disappointing season, leaves a significant void in the lineup. However, the Sabres hope newcomers like Ryan McLeod and Sam Lafferty can provide the necessary depth scoring to support the top line. These two players were solid additions to the existing core and will bring speed and some tenacity to Buffalo’s offense. Look for a bottom-six revitalization, which could set the stage for a playoff push.
Best-Case Scenario 2: The Sabres Defensive Duo of Dahlin and Byram Will Shine
Defensively, the Sabres were solid last season, finishing 11th in the league in goals allowed. Rasmus Dahlin continued his steady upward trajectory. He’s already a top-pair defenseman, and he’s getting better. However, the key to Buffalo’s defensive success this season could rest on the shoulders of Bowen Byram. He was acquired in a rare blockbuster trade for Casey Mittelstadt.
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