Buffalo finally ended its NHL-record 14-season playoff drought on Saturday, clinching a berth when the Rangers defeated Detroit. The Sabres' futility spanned 5,458 days since their last series win in 2011, ranking among the longest active streaks in North American pro sports. They clinched with six games remaining, entering the playoffs as Eastern Conference favorites after a 35-8-4 surge.

Buffalo's turnaround followed the firing of GM Kevyn Adams on December 15th and the promotion of Jarmo Kekalainen, coinciding with a franchise-record 10-game winning streak. Buffalo's 46-22-8 record reflects significant roster changes, including the return of key players like Josh Norris and Jason Zucker, and goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen's resurgence. The team is now led by veteran captain Rasmus Dahlin and forward Tage Thompson, who combined for 105 points this season.