Fri Apr 18 01:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Sabres Coach Lindy Ruff on the Cusp of 900th NHL Win, Team Focused on Playoff Push

**Columbus, OH** – Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff is one win away from a significant milestone. On Thursday, he’ll face the Columbus Blue Jackets aiming for his 900th NHL victory, a feat that would place him fifth all-time among NHL coaches. However, Ruff downplayed the achievement, emphasizing the team’s focus on securing a playoff berth.

“I could care less about 900,” Ruff stated before Tuesday’s game. “We want to win hockey games consistently. It’s not about me; it’s about the team.” He admitted his current drive stems from a feeling he hasn’t gotten the team to its potential soon enough.

Ruff’s impressive career spans stints with the Sabres (606 wins), Dallas Stars (165 wins), and New Jersey Devils (128 wins). He’s projected to surpass Barry Trotz and Paul Maurice to claim fourth place on the all-time wins list.

Despite a devastating 13-game winless streak that derailed their season, the Sabres have shown remarkable resilience. Since March 23rd, they boast the NHL’s best points percentage (.889) and are among the league’s top scoring teams, led by Tage Thompson’s 44 goals (second in the NHL) and Alex Tuch’s 34 goals. Goalie James Reimer has also been on a hot streak, winning his last seven games.

The Blue Jackets, conversely, are out of playoff contention, having secured only one win in their last four games. Their struggles present an opportunity for the Sabres to maintain their playoff push. The game will be broadcast on WGR 550, featuring pre-game analysis with Ruff and Jason Zucker.

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