The Blade Gang, a group of young hockey fans from South Buffalo, will bang the drum ahead of Game 5 between the Sabres and Bruins at KeyBank Center on April 28. The group has gained attention for their energetic presence during the playoffs, arriving at arenas in full hockey gear and rollerblading through city streets.
The Blade Gang’s activities have drawn widespread interest from both fans and notable figures in the hockey world. Their appearances have been mentioned by Paul Bisonette, Dave Portnoy, and Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff. “I’d actually like to play with those guys,” Ruff said.
Consisting of nine friends aged 18 to 24—Sean Maloney, Jack Ellis, Danny Maloney, Alex Pawlik, Ian Macvie, Jackson Soto, Luke Soto, Tommy Maloney, and Michael Bollenbacher—the group started their tradition at a cookout before Game 1. Jackson Soto was first seen rollerblading in full uniform through South Buffalo suburbs. Afterward, they traveled together to local venues dressed as players.
The Blade Gang quickly became known for their spirited actions outside arenas. One viral moment involved them attacking a dummy dressed in a Boston jersey—a prop belonging to another fan named Nick that was brought to pregame events. Reflecting on that moment upon seeing the dummy for the first time: “We’re taking him out. He’s got a Boston jersey on. He’s dead,” said members of The Blade Gang.
Their decision to travel to Boston came after gaining popularity online and receiving encouragement from other fans and even Matthew Tkachuk who commented he wished he could buy them tickets. As one member explained: “Just all the videos and everyone talking about us… We were loving that… Doesn’t matter if we can’t get in or not. We’re going to support the team.” Looking forward to Game 5 at home ice they say: “That place is going to be rocked out.”
