Buffalo Sabres Aim to End Playoff Drought Against Boston Bruins in 2026 Showdown
The Buffalo Sabres are poised to make a significant playoff return, entering the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in 15 seasons. They face the Boston Bruins in a first-round series that kicks off on Sunday, marking their ninth postseason showdown. Historically, the Bruins have dominated, winning six of the previous eight meetings, including a memorable clash in the 2010 Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff, a former player for the team, hopes to change the narrative. Ruff, a candidate for the Jack Adams Award, previously led the Sabres to a conference semifinal win against the Bruins in 1999 and has returned to Buffalo after stints with the Dallas Stars and New Jersey Devils. This season, the Sabres made a remarkable turnaround, securing 109 points and winning the Atlantic Division title. The Bruins, who missed last year's playoffs, return with a strong record, having earned at least 100 points this season. They won three of four regular-season matchups against the Sabres, including two in overtime. Despite this, the Sabres enter the playoffs on a five-game point streak. Current betting odds favor the Sabres, with futures odds ranging from -175 to -210, while the Bruins are priced between +145 and +170. Historically, the Bruins are favored to advance, holding a 6-2 postseason record against Buffalo. However, the Sabres' recent form—39-9-5 in their last 53 games—suggests they could defy the odds. Key players for the Sabres include Tage Thompson, who led the team with 40 goals, while Alex Tuch, Josh Doan, Jason Zucker, and Jack Quinn also contributed significantly. On the Bruins' side, David Pastrnak achieved 100 points, joining a prestigious group in franchise history. With both teams showcasing offensive talent, the series promises to be thrilling as the Sabres look to end their long playoff series drought.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-16