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Buffalo Sabres Claim Atlantic Division Title, End Playoff Drought

4/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Buffalo Sabres defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 5-1 to win their first Atlantic Division title since 2009-10 and end a 14-season playoff drought.
Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson led the effort, Thompson scored twice.
Head coach Lindy Ruff praised the effort, noting Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen posted a solid record.
Buffalo will face Boston or Ottawa in the first round after their final regular-season game against Dallas, as Thompson leads with 40 goals.

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Story summary

Buffalo Sabres defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 5-1 to win their first Atlantic Division title since 2009-10 and end a 14-season playoff drought.
Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson led the effort, Thompson scored twice.
Head coach Lindy Ruff praised the effort, noting Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen posted a solid record.
Buffalo will face Boston or Ottawa in the first round after their final regular-season game against Dallas, as Thompson leads with 40 goals.