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

Buffalo hasn't won back to back division titles in over 40 years, and three stacked Atlantic Division rivals are ready to keep that streak alive.

Published: Sunday, 27 September 2026 at 12:47 PM
3 division rivals that could derail the Sabres pursuit of a rare franchise milestone
Key Things to Know
  • The Buffalo Sabres are pursuing back-to-back division titles for the first time since 1981.
  • Buffalo won the Atlantic Division last season, ending their playoff drought.
  • The Tampa Bay Lightning finished only three points behind Buffalo in the division standings last season.
The Story in 60 Seconds

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.

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