Full Breakdown
Buffalo Sabres' Playoff Hopes Rest on Star Players Ahead of 2025-26 Season
9/26/2025, 5:15:15 AM
Key Players in TSN's Top 50 Rankings
As the Buffalo Sabres prepare for the 2025-26 NHL season, the franchise is looking to end its record 14-year playoff drought. Two players from the Sabres have been recognized in TSN's annual ranking of the NHL's top 50 players: defenseman Rasmus Dahlin, ranked 27th, and forward Tage Thompson, ranked 45th. Their performances will be crucial for the Sabres as they aim for a successful campaign.
Rasmus Dahlin's Impact
Rasmus Dahlin, the first overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, has established himself as a premier defenseman. Over the past three seasons, he has recorded 200 points (52 goals and 148 assists) in 232 games. His expected goals for percentage (xGF%) ranks fifth among NHL defensemen during this period, highlighting his significant impact on the ice. Dahlin has expressed his commitment to the Sabres, stating, “I have never said I want out of here... We have to get better.” His leadership and performance will be vital as the team seeks to improve.
Tage Thompson's Offensive Prowess
Tage Thompson's journey has been marked by a significant turnaround since being acquired in a trade with the St. Louis Blues in 2018. After struggling early in his career, Thompson has emerged as a formidable offensive player, scoring over 40 goals in two of the last three seasons. He has accumulated 290 points (158 goals and 132 assists) in 303 games since his breakout season in 2021-22. Thompson has also expressed his desire to contribute to the Sabres' success, stating, “Like, I want to be an Olympian, but getting the Sabres back into the playoffs is always at the forefront.”
Official Statements & Responses
The Sabres' management, led by General Manager Kevyn Adams, faces the challenge of building a competitive roster around Dahlin and Thompson. The team has struggled to acquire high-end talent through trades or free agency, which has contributed to their prolonged absence from the playoffs. The upcoming season will be critical for the Sabres, as they aim to capitalize on the talents of their star players.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Dahlin and Thompson, critics point out that the Sabres' overall roster still lacks depth and proven talent. The team's inability to secure a playoff spot for over a decade raises questions about their long-term strategy and ability to compete in a tough Eastern Conference.
What's Next for the Sabres
The Sabres will kick off their regular season on October 9, hosting the New York Rangers at the KeyBank Center. The performance of Dahlin and Thompson will be closely monitored as fans and analysts alike look to see if they can lead the team back to the postseason. The pressure is on for the Sabres to finally break their playoff drought and establish themselves as a competitive force in the NHL.
