The Buffalo Sabres' hopes for a postseason return have once again been dashed, marking a 14-year playoff drought, the longest in North American professional sports history. General Manager Kevyn Adams highlighted challenges attracting talent to Buffalo, noting the city’s lack of appeal compared to warmer climates. Despite offseason moves, including the buyout of Jeff Skinner and the addition of minor players, the Sabres failed to find the scoring punch needed to contend.

A significant early-season slump saw the team lose 13 consecutive games, which proved insurmountable. Players like Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch are not matching their previous offensive outputs, and injuries have further complicated matters. While the core remains intact, including key players like Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power, questions loom about whether the Sabres can finally escape their long-standing playoff purgatory.