The longest postseason drought in NHL history is over. For the first time in 15 years, the Buffalo Sabres have clinched a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Sabres secured their first spot since 2011 thanks to the New York Rangers’ 4-1 win this afternoon over the Detroit Red Wings.
Almost fittingly, a guy named Perreault – Rangers rookie Gabe Perreault, that is – scored a hat trick to help punch the Sabres’ ticket.
While it’s not the most exciting way to officially crack the postseason, does it really matter?
The Sabres, who on Thursday lost 4-1 to Ottawa Senators and failed in their first attempt to clinch, aren’t exactly backing into the playoffs.
Since Dec. 9, they’ve registered an NHL-best 35-8-4 record. Since the Olympic break ended Feb. 25, they own a league-best 14-3-2 mark.
Overall, having recorded a 46-22-8 record and 100 points this season, they rank second in the ultra-competitive Atlantic Division entering tonight’s road game against the Washington Capitals, two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Sabres are a legitimate Cup contender, and securing a spot might just be their first milestone this spring.
Check back later for more.