The 2026-27 season has not even gotten anywhere close to starting, and the Buffalo Sabres have an expectation labeled on them to return. This roster might not be able to handle something like that.
To say that this previous playoff run was a surprise was an understatement. Going into the 2025-26 season, the idea of breaking the long 14-year drought was obviously there, but it was thought of as an unachievable goal.
50 wins later, they make the playoffs via winning the Atlantic Division, and now their Stanley Cup-winning window is open.
Can they handle the heat?
It is easier to make the playoffs when it is a surprise. But after doing that, the expectation is to do it again. But sometimes, that is not the case.
When the St. Louis Blues snuck into the playoffs in 2024-25, it looked like they had finally gotten themselves out of that bubble-team tier of the NHL. But last season showcased that it was all a case of false hope, as they took a major step back.
The Sabres must do everything in their power to make sure they do not fall into that category. This summer has to emphasize ensuring that the roster going into the second round has enough potential to go further, or the General Manager, Jarmo Kekäläinen, has to go out and grab the top guys who can.
This upcoming free agency period has some solid picks, but nothing game-changing. One of the top gets is actually Alex Tuch, and it is important for the Sabres to attempt to bring him back at a reasonable price. Whether or not that happens is entirely up in the air.
After the success of last season, it is important for this franchise not to get too confident. Every season is different, and there is a chance that an Atlantic Division rival turns itself around quickly after getting the first-overall pick in the upcoming draft, the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Sabres cannot afford to let last season be a one-hit wonder, or else fans will be deflated worse than waiting those 14 long years.
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