Buffalo Sabres' Turnaround: From Last to First

For the NHL, it's March 18th. Here's what's happening.

The Buffalo Sabers aren't fired this season, leading the Atlantic Division and tied for

third in the National Hockey League after a massive turnaround.

New General Manager, Jarmo Kekalinen, took over on December 15th,

but the team had already started winning before that.

They snapped a 14-year playoff drought streak with some key changes.

Kekalinen first joined as a senior advisor back on May 30th, 2025,

right after another missed playoffs.

The Sabers had dead last in the Eastern Conference on December 8th,

with an 11-win 14-loss four overtime record.

Then they beat Edmonton in overtime on December 9th,

followed by wins over Vancouver and Seattle.

Since that first victory, Buffalo has gone 31 wins,

six losses, and two overtime losses,

posting the best record in the league during that stretch.

Their second and goal scored per game at 3.77,

but number one in fewest goals allowed at 2.49 for game.

Kekalinen credits better defense and team buy-in for the shift,

saying the skill was always there, but now players commit to the right style.

Confidence has built up, creating great chemistry and fun in the group.

Hardward from coaching hasn't changed, but success made everyone believe.

Before the March 6th trade deadline, they added forward Sam Kerak and Tanner Pearson,

plus defenseman Luke Shen and Logan Stanley for depth, and

good attitudes.

With injuries healing, competition for spots will be tough.

The Sabre Space San Jose on Thursday night,

staying focused without looking too far ahead.

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