Wed Feb 25 23:40:00 UTC 2026: Headline: Buffalo Sabres Resume Season with Playoff Hopes High After Olympic Break

The Story:
The Buffalo Sabres have returned from the Olympic break and are preparing to face the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday, with 25 games remaining in their regular season. Following a week of intense practices, the team is focused on maintaining their strong performance from before the break, where they held the second-best points percentage in the NHL. Veteran winger Alex Tuch emphasized the importance of carrying that momentum into the final stretch, viewing it as a crucial “playoff race.” Coach Lindy Ruff’s strategy of breaking the season into five-game segments, with a target of six points per segment, has largely been successful, positioning the Sabres favorably for a playoff berth.

The Sabres have recalled forward Anton Wahlberg from the Rochester Americans, potentially to fill a void left by Tage Thompson, who may be attending the State of the Union address. Wahlberg, a 2023 draft pick acquired in the Rasmus Ristolainen trade, brings size and versatility to the lineup.

Key Points:

  • The Buffalo Sabres resume their season against the New Jersey Devils with 25 games remaining.
  • Alex Tuch stresses the importance of maintaining pre-Olympic break momentum for a playoff push.
  • Lindy Ruff’s five-game segment strategy has yielded 69 points out of a targeted 66.
  • Anton Wahlberg has been recalled from the Rochester Americans, potentially replacing Tage Thompson.
  • The Trade Deadline is on March 6, which Tuch believes will further intensify the playoff atmosphere.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Buffalo Sabres are entering a critical phase of the season, with playoff contention within reach.
  • Alex Tuch’s leadership and playoff experience are valuable assets for the team.
  • The coaching staff’s strategic approach appears to be paying dividends.
  • The recall of Anton Wahlberg provides depth and flexibility to the Sabres’ forward lineup.

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