After completing their preseason schedule, the Buffalo Sabres are preparing for their regular season opener against the New York Rangers on Thursday. The team has wrapped up 13 official practices, five morning skates, and six preseason games.
Coach Lindy Ruff expressed eagerness to move past the preparation phase. “We’re all tired of looking at preseason video and practice video; now, let’s put it to the test against the other teams’ real lineup,” Ruff said after Wednesday’s practice at KeyBank Center. “Let’s go to work and prove that what we’ve been working on will make us a winning hockey club.”
Players shared their anticipation for opening night. Zach Benson mentioned he is excited about playing in front of fans, while Jacob Bryson echoed this sentiment. Beck Malenstyn highlighted the energy expected from a within-state game and being back in front of supporters. Rasmus Dahlin stated his focus is to win.
Jason Zucker and Bowen Byram both simply cited their enthusiasm for playing hockey again. Josh Norris said, “We get to play real hockey again.” Colten Ellis, who was claimed off waivers on Monday and is expected to dress for his first-ever regular season game, noted he is looking forward to everything about opening night.
Josh Doan commented, “I’m pumped. Should be fun. I’m looking forward to it.” Peyton Krebs pointed out the competitiveness of the upcoming games, while Jack Quinn referred to it as his first game in a long time. Alex Lyon summed up his feelings by saying, “I’m just sick of waiting. I hate waiting.” Tage Thompson added: “There’s no reason for us not to feel optimistic. Every team starts with zero points; there’s no advantages spread out across the league. I think we have an opportunity to do something pretty special here, and I think that’s what gets everybody excited.”
Regarding lineup decisions due to injuries, Michael Kesselring’s absence has opened a spot on defense for either Jacob Bryson or Ryan Johnson. Ruff suggested that Bryson’s experience may give him an edge: “Both players have played well,” Ruff said. “I think Bryson’s experience gives you a little edge sometimes. Even late last year, he was playing against some of the top lines and doing a real nice job for us.”
Ruff also commented on Johnson’s style: “With RJ, we know we’ve got a guy that can add a little bit more physical side to his game. He can be a type of guy that can get to pucks in a hurry, although him and Brys are both really good skaters. So, we’re kind of comparing the physicality with maybe a little bit of veteran savvy.” With Kesselring considered week-to-week due to injury, both left-shot defensemen are likely to see playing time early in the season.
The five-day break between preseason finale and regular season opener has allowed several injured players—defensemen Owen Power and Mattias Samuelsson as well as forward Zach Benson—to return to practice since Saturday’s final exhibition game in Pittsburgh.
The Sabres will host their home opener at KeyBank Center with puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m., preceded by coverage on MSG starting at 6:30 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for festivities at Ticketmaster Alumni Plaza beginning at 3:45 p.m., which will include player arrivals along the blue-and-gold carpet and live music from Nerds Gone Wild.
