Lindy Ruff sends wake-up call to Buffalo Sabres with lineup changes

Buffalo Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff delivered a wake-up call by making forward Ryan McLeod and defenseman Louis Crevier healthy scratches ahead of Friday night's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both players had featured in all 15 games of the 2026-27 season. Jiri Kulich returns from injury to replace McLeod, while Conor Timmins makes his season debut on the blue line in place of Crevier.

The lineup adjustments come amid Buffalo's early-season struggles, with McLeod recording only three points and a team-worst minus-seven rating. Writer Tim Daniels argues that Ruff's message initiates needed internal competition for the reigning Atlantic Division champions. Additional roster flexibility is anticipated as injured players such as goaltender Alex Lyon approach their returns to the lineup.