The Buffalo Sabres ended their 2025-26 regular season with a 4-3 shootout defeat against the Dallas Stars on April 16 at KeyBank Center. The game, which had no impact on playoff seeding for either team, saw both sides trade goals before Wyatt Johnston scored the deciding goal in the fourth round of the shootout.
Despite the result, attention has already shifted to the upcoming Stanley Cup Playoffs, where Buffalo will face the Boston Bruins at home in Game 1. Zach Benson, who recorded a goal and an assist during Wednesday’s game, said, “I think I can speak for everyone in this room: We’re amped up, we’re fired up. I think we’re all just looking forward to Game 1 here.”
Beck Malenstyn set a new franchise record for hits in a single season by delivering six hits during the finale to reach a total of 282 and surpass Marcus Foligno’s previous mark of 279 from the 2016-17 season. Malenstyn said he was unaware of his pursuit until told by senior communications coordinator Mitch Courtney before a recent game. “But it’s a little accomplishment, a fun feather in the hat. Obviously, being physical is a big part of my game, I try to bring it every night,” Malenstyn said. Head coach Lindy Ruff added about Malenstyn: “He’s a guy that I don’t think other teams like playing against. Those types of guys are important players in the playoffs. The shot blocking. His effort most nights is second to none.”
Josh Norris continued his strong offensive performance by tying Wednesday’s game early and extending his point streak to six games as he prepares for his first playoff appearance with nine points over his last eight contests. Ruff commented on Norris’ form: “I think that’s a real positive… We know he has to be a big part of it, and the fact that he’s scored here last few games, it’s got to have him feeling good. It makes me feel good.”
Benson also notched his first career shorthanded goal during Wednesday’s penalty kill efforts and finished with double shifts due to several regulars resting ahead of playoffs; he now has fifteen points over his last sixteen games.
Alex Tuch reached two milestones—scoring both his thirty-third goal this year and marking two hundred career goals—while five Sabres players completed all eighty-two games this season.
Rasmus Dahlin was announced as winner of this year’s Rick Martin Memorial Award recognizing excellence on ice and community dedication as determined by fan vote.
With momentum building from individual achievements and consecutive sellouts at KeyBank Center heading into postseason play, Buffalo looks ahead toward its series opener against Boston.
