With two official practices and an intrasquad scrimmage completed, the Buffalo Sabres are set to begin their preseason schedule. The team will face the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Monday, marking the first of six preseason games.
Head coach Lindy Ruff, entering his second season back with Buffalo, outlined his vision for the 2025-26 team at the start of training camp: “Hard to play against and play well defensively.” Ruff emphasized that offseason changes, both on and off the ice, have helped move the organization toward this goal. With less than three weeks until the regular season begins, Buffalo aims to demonstrate its progress and establish momentum for the upcoming campaign.
The game is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. Fans in the Buffalo broadcast market can watch on MSG or listen via WGR 550 radio.
Regarding goaltending plans for Monday’s game, Ruff stated after morning skate that Georgiev will play in net for the first two periods while Levi will take over in the third period. This rotation is part of a broader plan to give each goaltender two preseason periods; Levi is also expected to play Tuesday’s third period when Buffalo hosts Columbus.
The Sabres made several additions during the offseason. Kesselring joins as a versatile defenseman. Doan was acquired as a young forward known for forechecking and offensive upside. Danforth signed as a bottom-six forward with experience, while Geertsen brings physicality to the lineup. Mrtka, drafted ninth overall, has quickly become one of Buffalo’s most notable prospects. Georgiev adds depth and competition among goaltenders.
Captain Rasmus Dahlin commented on these new teammates: “Unbelievable – great additions,” he said. “Everyone can play with the puck. Everybody is tall, tough to play against, hard. We’ve got the depth. We’ve got the skill. We want to be a good defending team this year. There are some great guys, too. They fit right into our locker room. I’m very pumped.”
Alex Tuch added: “The new guys we brought in, I think, are gonna mesh well with us and fit into our style of play really well and help us win games.”
Other storylines from training camp include contract negotiations involving Alex Tuch and positive reviews for Josh Norris following his return from injury.
