The Buffalo Sabres compete in the NHL’s Atlantic Division, widely regarded as the toughest division in the league. This division comprises eight teams, all vying for playoff spots in the upcoming season. As part of a series on THN.com, each rival team in the Sabres’ division is analyzed to assess how Buffalo measures up against them.
Previously, the first four Atlantic teams—Boston, Detroit, Florida, and Montreal—were examined. This article focuses on the Ottawa Senators, a team that ended a seven-year playoff drought recently. It reviews how Buffalo performed against Ottawa last season and what chances they have of overcoming the Senators in the next season.
Buffalo swept Ottawa last season with a perfect 4-0 record. Ottawa’s offseason acquisitions include players like Arthur Kariev and Jordan Spence, but these additions haven’t significantly strengthened the team. With little roster change, Buffalo is expected to maintain an edge over Ottawa. The teams are scheduled to meet three times in the 2025-26 season—once early in October and twice in Ottawa later in the year. Early and late-season matchups could see very different rosters and team dynamics.
Ottawa struggled with offense last season, ranking 19th in the league, and their defense showed mediocrity. Buffalo’s attack, even without key player JJ Peterka, appeared stronger and exploited Ottawa’s weaknesses effectively, outscoring them 17-5 last year. Although Ottawa’s goaltending is superior to Buffalo’s, the Sabres have historically triumphed over them. The reduced number of games between these teams may lessen their rivalry, but given the intense competition for playoff spots in the Atlantic Division, both teams face tough challenges ahead. If the Metropolitan division improves and claims more playoff slots, only four Atlantic teams will qualify, and both Buffalo and Ottawa might be left out.
The Sabres have shown promise and reasons for optimism this season, but hockey fans know that expectations can weigh heavily on teams. For Buffalo to break their 14-year playoff drought, defeating their Atlantic rivals, including Ottawa, is essential. While the Senators aren’t yet considered elite contenders, that could change, so Buffalo must capitalize on any advantage they have over them. Missing the playoffs again, especially after multiple losses to Ottawa, would be a significant setback.
Fan Take: This analysis is crucial for hockey fans as it highlights the fierce competition within one of the NHL’s toughest divisions and shows why every game counts toward making the playoffs. Buffalo’s performance against Ottawa could be a bellwether for their chances of ending a long playoff drought and energizing their fan base for future seasons.
