Breaking down the Sabres recent history in home openers

This season the Buffalo Sabres will face off at home for the first time on October 10th against the Los Angeles Kings. They will hope to start things off in front of their fanbase in a strong fashion as they look to breakthrough and make the postseason. Here is a look back and how they fared in their last 5 home openers.

October 5, 2019: The Sabres won 7-2 against the New Jersey Devils. Both Victor Olofsson and Sam Reinhart scored two goals in the start of Buffalo's 50th anniversary season. Note the season was shortened due to the Covid pandemic.

January 14, 2021: The Sabres lost to the Captials 6-4 during the start of the Covid-shortened season. Jack Eichel contributed on two assists during the loss and the team had 20 hits during the entire game.

October 14, 2021: Buffalo took the home opener over the Montreal Canadiens, winning 5-1. Veteran goalie Craig Anderson had 30 saves and Kyle Okposo kicked off the goal scoring on a shorthanded goal in the first period.

October 13, 2022: The Sabres won 4-1 against the Ottawa Senators. Craig Anderson had .972% save percentage and Victor Olofsson contributed two goals. The Sabres were down 1-0 after the first period but hit on four unanswered goals from the second period on.

October 12, 2023: Buffalo lost to the New York Rangers 5-1 in last season's home opener. The lone bright spot came on an even strength goal in the second period by JJ Peterka. It kicked off a career high in goals for Peterka through the season with 28.

Emotions will be high against the Los Angeles Kings. Not only are the Sabres welcoming back Lindy Ruff but they are also looking to break their playoff drought. Getting off to a hot start and winning the home opener will be the first step in that direction.