Spoiler alert: The Buffalo Sabres postseason drought is nearly almost over. Fans are now looking forward to the playoffs and perhaps the team emerging as a Stanley Cup contender.
They are also looking back on the 14-year playoff absence, including some moments and players they may rather forget.
Evander Kane (Winger; 2015-18)
He had speed and a lot of promise as a goal scorer when the Sabres traded for him in 2015. His tenure, however, was marred by injuries and many legal issues that left many in Western New York wishing for his departure. He was traded to the San Jose Sharks in 2018.
Robin Lehner (Goalie; 2015-18)
Like Kane, Lehner had a lot of wasted promise. He had flashes of brilliance between the pipes, and he had an aggressive style of play. However, he proved a lightning rod and inconsistent as a starter. He was also best remembered for his failure during shootouts while with the Sabres.
Cody Hodgson (Center; 2012-15)
The former Vancouver Canuck expressed frustration at being traded in the first place and did not pan as the Sabres had hoped for after the trade. In the 2014-15 season, he scored just six goals in 78 games as the team finished in the bottom of the standings. They were arguably the worst team in the NHL during his tenure.
Sam Reinhart (Winger; 2014-21)
Mostly played well. Really well at times. Never had the pressure of being the "top player" but at times he still struggled mightily to find the back of the net. He grew frustrated with the organization's losing and was ultimately traded to the Florida Panthers. He is among the long list of Sabres who have hoisted the Stanley Cup since leaving.
Ralph Krueger (Head coach; 2019-21)
The hiring of Krueger spoke to some of the disfunction of the organization. He was working in soccer before the hire. He was fired in only his second season. It was after a 12-game losing streak as the Sabres were struggling that season, just like many others in the last 14 during this drought.
The Sabres now have much in front of them. It seems though that the coaches, players and management they have in place have begun to learn from mistakes made in the past. Now, as they come ever so close to the postseason, they will be looking at those issues that caused them to not have the important "X" in the standings for clinching a playoff berth for all these years.