Buffalo Sabres 2025-26 Preseason Schedule: Can They Finally Turn It Around?
Buffalo Sabres 2025 to26 preseason schedule. Can they finally turn it around? Will the 202526 season finally bring an end to the Buffalo Sabres playoff drought? The Buffalo Sabres have been stuck in a neverending cycle of rebuilding and it’s getting old. With a record 14 consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance and likely headed for a 15th, fans are growing restless. The recent trade of young forward JJ Purka to Utah has raised eyebrows and many are questioning the direction of the franchise. But here’s where it gets interesting. The 202526 preseason schedule has been released and it could be the catalyst for change. As an expert in NHL rumors, I can tell you that the pressure is mounting in Buffalo. The Petarka trade sent shock waves through the league and many are wondering if the Sabres have what it takes to turn things around. With a talented young core, the pieces are in place, but chemistry and identity are still lacking. This preseason will be crucial in building those essential elements, and the schedule is packed with familiar foes and tough opponents that will put this young team to the test. So, what can we expect from the Sabres this preseason? Here’s a breakdown of their schedule. Monday, September 22nd, 2025, the Sabres kick off their preseason on the road against the Columbus Blue Jackets at 7:00 Eastern time at Nationwide Arena. Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025, the Sabres return home to face off against the Blue Jackets at 700 p.m. Eastern time at Key Bank Center. Thursday, September 25th, 2025. The Sabres head to Detroit to take on the Red Wings at 700 p.m. Eastern time at Little Caesar’s Arena. Saturday, September 27th, 2025. The Sabres host the Red Wings at 300 p.m. Eastern time at Key Bank Center. Wednesday, October 1st, 2025. The Sabres welcome the Pittsburgh Penguins to Key Bank Center at 7:00 p.m. Eastern time. Friday, October 3rd, 2025. The Sabres close out their preseason on the road against the Penguins at 700 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time at PPG Paints Arena. The Sabres have their work cut out for them. But inside look at the Buffalo Sabres road to ending the playoff drought 2025 team update. Imagine a city that hasn’t tasted playoff hockey in over a decade. Welcome to Buffalo, home of the Sabres, who are desperate to break their NHL record 14 season Stanley Cup playoff drought. The team is pulling out all the stops, making significant additions to both their front office and roster, hoping that this will be the year they finally bring postseason hockey back to their fans. But here’s where it gets controversial. The Sabres aren’t just looking for any players. They’re specifically targeting harder players. those who can skate on both sides of the puck and bring a competitive edge. But is this the right strategy? Let’s dive in and explore the changes happening in Buffalo. NHL.com is taking an indepth look at the rosters, prospects, and fantasy analysis for each of the 32 NHL teams from August 1st to September 1st. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on the Buffalo Sabres. The Buffalo Sabres are pinning their hopes on a revamped front office and roster to finally end their lengthy playoff drought. The two most crucial newcomers won’t be scoring goals or taking shifts this season, but they’ll be instrumental in steering the organization toward success. Meet Eric Stall and Yarmmo Kealinan, who will be working alongside general manager Kevin Adams to build a team capable of postseason hockey. When I was looking to bolster our existing staff, I wanted someone with a fresh perspective and a proven track record of winning at all levels of hockey, Adam said about Stall, and Stall certainly fits the bill. Stall, now 40, joined the Sabres as an assistant to the GM on May 7th. His role will encompass all aspects of the Sabres hockey department, from scouting to direct involvement with players and prospects. Stall’s impressive career includes 1,63 points, 455 goals, 608 assists in 1,365 games with teams like the Carolina Hurricanes, New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, Sabres, Montreal Canadians, and Florida Panthers. He also won a gold medal with Canada at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to be part of many successful teams, and I hope to leverage those experiences to help the Sabres moving forward, Stall shared. Keelanan, on the other hand, will serve as a senior adviser, overseeing all parts of hockey operations. The 59-year-old made history as the first European GM of an NHL team when he was hired by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2013. During his tenure, the Blue Jackets made the playoffs five times in his first seven full seasons and brought in bigname players like Arti Paneran, Sergey Babrovski, and Johnny Gdro. Kekalinan’s extensive experience includes working with the Ottawa Senators and St. Louis Blues, where he helped oversee draft classes featuring stars like Jason Spzza, Martin Havlat, Marian Hosa, Alex Petrangelo, and more. Kevin and I share the same philosophies and core beliefs on how to build a winning team. Keolin stated with veteran coach Lindy Ruff returning for his second season. The experienced leadership team is determined to improve on last season’s 36397 record which placed them seventh in the Atlantic Division. The Sabres primary goal is to reduce the number of goals against. Last season, they allowed 289 goals, more than the San Jose Sharks, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Chicago Blackhawks. And this is the part most people miss. The Sabres aren’t just focusing on defense. They’re also bringing in players who can skate on both sides of the puck and bring a competitive edge. The Sabres biggest move was acquiring defenseman Michael Kessler and sandpaper forward Josh Don from the Utah Mammoth in exchange for forward JJ Purka. Trading away a 23-year-old who had 68 points in 77 games is a significant move, but Adams believes the return will be worth it. I want skilled players, but I also want harder players, players that compete,” Adams explained. Kessle Ring, a 6’5, 215 lb right-hand shot, had an NHL career-high 29 points in 82 games last season. He’s expected to pair with 22-year-old Owen Power, who had 40 points in 79 games in 2024 25. It’s funny, Kessler said, “Honestly, they’re one of my favorite teams to watch just because of Rasmus, Dalene, and Owen.” Kessle Ring joins a talented defenseman group that includes Power Darling Bowen Byum, Matias Samuelson, and Connor Timonss, who was acquired with Isaac Bleivo in a trade with the Penguins for a second round pick in the 2025 NHL draft and defenseman Connor Clifton. In goal, the Sabres brought in Alex Lion, who signed a two-year contract on July 1st to provide competition for number one goalie Uko Pekka Lucin and 23-year-old Devin Levi. This off season, the Sabres have added experience both on and off the ice. Whether it’s enough to end their postseason drought remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure, the Sabres are allin on their quest to bring playoff hockey back to Buffalo. So, what do you think? Will these changes be enough to break the drought? Or is Buffalo in for another long winter? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And remember, this is a hot topic. Don’t be afraid to stir up some controversy. Buffalo Sabres. A look at the upcoming Summon of 2024. The summer of the Buffalo Sabres has been a whirlwind of activity, and the coming season promises to be just as dynamic. As the dog days of summer intensify, the NHL season looms on the horizon and the Sabres have been working tirelessly to fortify their roster. Much like the rest of the league, general manager Kevin Adams made some tough calls, including sending star forward JJ Purka to the Utah Mammoth and agreeing to a new contract with defenseman Bowen Byum. These moves aimed to add depth to the team’s lineup, setting their sights on a Stanley Cup playoff run. But Adams and his staff still have much to do before next summer’s deadline arrives. The Sabres currently hold 5,190,319 in available salary cap space according to Puckedia. While the trade of Purka was predictable, the financial return was met with skepticism from many experts. As a restricted free agent, the Turka demanded a 5-year extension worth $ 38.5 million with a seasonal cap hit of $7.7 million. This amount was saved to bring in veteran pieces like goalender Alex Lion or defender Connor Timonss, but it’s a temporary solution for the near term. Next summer, the team’s core will be led by Alex Tuck, who will headline a roster filled with expiring contracts. Unlike Tuck, other key players such as restricted free agents and those remaining under team control will require new deals. If an agreement isn’t reached during the season, Tuck could be traded in July. His role as the centerpiece of the Jack Eel trade to Las Vegas has made him a vital asset to the franchise. At 29, Tuck has taken on a leadership role in Buffalo, exceeding expectations with 36 goals and 31 helpers last season. The Sabres future hinges on securing Tuck’s commitment before the NHL trade deadline. If they’re not contending for a playoff spot, Tuck will dominate headlines around the deadline. Recently acquired Josh Don and Michael Kessler are nearing the end of their current contracts and will become restricted free agents. Kessler, who currently earns $1.4 million per season, is one of the league’s most versatile right-handed defenseman. Last season, he broke out posting careerh highs in every category with seven goals and 29 points. Don, a former second round draft pick of the Arizona Coyotes, one gold with team USA in the hockey world championships this spring. A standout at Arizona State, Don could be the surprise of the Purka trade. Unless he secures a blowout season, his salary is expected to stay below $2 million. Meanwhile, Zack Benson, a former 13th overall draft pick, will be a restricted free agent this season. At 20, he already has 21 goals, and his potential to contribute to the top line could make him a valuable asset. The Sabres success this season will depend on players like Benson deciding the outcome of their late April playoff bid. The NHL is poised for a salary cap increase, which could help Adams build a stronger roster. However, this summer marked just the beginning of a series of critical summers for the franchise. Whether the Sabers will thrive or face challenges remains to be seen.
00:00 – Buffalo Sabres 2025-26 Preseason Schedule: Can They Finally Turn It Around?
02:29 – Inside Look at the Buffalo Sabres’ Road to Ending the Playoff Drought | 2025 Team Update
08:19 – Buffalo Sabres: A Look at the Upcoming Summer of 2024
1. Buffalo Sabres 2025-26 Preseason Schedule: Can They Finally Turn It Around?
Explore the Buffalo Sabres’ 2025-26 preseason schedule featuring games against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, and Pittsburgh Penguins. With 14 consecutive playoff misses, this could be their chance to break the trend. Dive into the details and see if the Sabres are ready for a new era or if fans are in for more of the same.
2. Inside Look at the Buffalo Sabres’ Road to Ending the Playoff Drought | 2025 Team Update
Discover the latest updates on the Buffalo Sabres as they aim to end their 14-season playoff drought. This in-depth analysis covers new front office additions, key roster moves, and strategic changes for the 2025 season. Learn how veteran players like Eric Staal and Jarmo Kekalainen are bringing experience and stability, while new trades and signings aim to make the Sabres more competitive. Perfect for NHL fans wanting an inside look at Buffalo’s team rebuild and prospects for postseason success in 2025.
3. Buffalo Sabres: A Look at the Upcoming Summer of 2024
The Buffalo Sabres had a busy summer, but the work isn’t over yet! General Manager Kevyn Adams has some crucial decisions to make next summer. With key players like Alex Tuch, Josh Doan, and Michael Kesselring’s contracts expiring, the Sabres need to strategize. Tuch, a vital piece since the Jack Eichel trade, is expected to command a significant contract. Will the Sabres lock him down early, or will he be a trade deadline rumor? Find out more about the Sabres’ future and how they plan to navigate these crucial summers ahead.
