3 division rivals that could derail the Sabres pursuit of a rare franchise milestone

The Buffalo Sabres are aiming to win consecutive division crowns for the first time since the 1979-80 and 1980-81 seasons. Buffalo captured the Atlantic Division title last season, which ended a lengthy playoff drought and marked the franchise's first division victory since realignment in 2013.

Standing in their path are key rivals in a competitive Atlantic Division, prominently featuring the Tampa Bay Lightning. Tampa Bay finished just three points behind Buffalo last season and adjusted its roster by adding defenseman John Carlson in place of Darren Raddysh.