The Buffalo Sabres are riding a wave of success, and a "win mode now" mentality is taking hold within the team. After enduring a 14-year playoff drought, the longest in the NHL, the Sabres are demonstrating a newfound confidence and determination to compete with the league's best.
Recent performance underscores this shift. The Sabres are 19-3-1 in their last 23 games. Goaltender Alex Lyon has been a major catalyst, setting a franchise record with his 10th consecutive win. Coach Lindy Ruff believes Lyon brings an "infectious" calmness to the team. Lyon himself remains humble, but his .933 save percentage and 1.94 goals-against average during his streak speak volumes.
The team's offensive firepower has also been on display. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Kings, Alex Tuch scored his fourth career hat trick. The defense is contributing significantly, with players like Mattias Samuelsson scoring goals and Rasmus Dahlin and Bowen Byram notching assists. According to Kesselring, the defensemen are actively involved in the offensive zone, and the forwards are effectively reading off them.
The Sabres' success extends beyond individual performances. They won 63 percent of their faceoffs in a recent game, showcasing their depth and skill at the dot. The team's power play has also been a weapon, with Tuch recently scoring a power-play goal.
The Sabres' strong play has propelled them to third place in the Atlantic Division. The team has a favorable record against divisional opponents, going 10-3-2, although most of the losses occurred early in the season. The Sabres are also leading the NHL with 18 empty-net goals, highlighting their ability to close out games.
The team's turnaround has garnered attention around the league. Some analysts believe that the Sabres could be the best team in the Eastern Conference if not for early-season injuries. The Sabres are making a serious bid to end their playoff drought, and their strong play is attracting attention around the league.
With the trade deadline approaching on March 6th, the Sabres are in a position to be buyers. They may look to add a steady, shutdown veteran defenseman and another top-nine forward to bolster their roster. The focus is on acquiring NHL-ready players to contribute immediately.
The "win mode now" mentality is not just a slogan; it reflects a tangible shift in the team's culture and performance. The Sabres are playing with confidence, determination, and a belief that they can compete with the league's best. While challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, the Sabres are well-positioned to make a run for the playoffs and potentially make some noise once they get there. Coach Ruff's return has instilled a deep understanding of the team's ethos, fostering resilience and guiding the team toward a common goal.