Buffalo grabbed its first lead of the season when a Jack Quinn one-timer from the slot missed the net, bounced off the glass, and slid in off Leevi Merilainen’s back on a first-period power play. Tim Stutzle tied it for Ottawa in the same frame. Buffalo was outscored 10-2 across three straight losses to the Rangers, Bruins and Avalanche, a historic early skid that they’ve never endured in franchise memory, though 2017’s 0-4-1 and 2013’s 0-6-1 highlight the volatility of such starts. Fantasy managers should monitor Quinn’s shooting and Buffalo’s power play as the team searches for a spark.

The tale of the night features the perplexing, lucky lead for Buffalo, the conference-wide struggle to convert chances, and the quick counterpunch from Ottawa’s Stutzle. Buffalo’s 0-4 start marks a rare low-water mark, forcing line shuffles and risk assessment for fantasy rosters. Quinn’s moment points to upside if he remains a focal point, while Merilainen’s early exposure signals goalie volatility until Buffalo tightens its armor.

In short, Buffalo’s offense and goaltending are under the microscope as they chase a turnaround, with Quinn serving as the likeliest engine for late-season upside and Stutzle’s early contribution reminding fantasy players to watch cross-division clashes closely.

Devin Cooley makes his first regular-season appearance for Calgary behind Dustin Wolf, with rust and workload in play and a likely slow pace tonight. The matchup hints at a save-heavy, low-event night, making under 26.5 saves a plausible angle if Cooley settles in and Calgary relies on its depth.

Leevi Meriläinen debuts for Buffalo after a rocky start to 2025-26, while Buffalo’s offense has been conspicuously silent. Under 2.5 goals allowed carries some risk, but the Sabres’ scoring drought keeps this prop squarely in play if Buffalo continues to struggle.

Dylan Cozens faces Buffalo in a revenge scenario for Ottawa, with Batherson returning and extra time on the man advantage. Over 0.5 points looks attractive given Cozens’ early-season punch and the increased PP duty around Batherson’s return.

The piece notes the authors’ DFS involvement and cautions that picks may diverge from personal lineups, underscoring the nuance bettors must apply when interpreting these recommendations.

Georgiev faces a rumored KHL return as Spartak holds his rights and several clubs show interest. Islanders assets Pageau and Lee could pivot if the team dips, while the Leafs probe Nick Robertson for a larger role. Bedard could command eight figures on his next deal, and Toronto’s front office has kicked the tires on Robertson. The Sabres feel the heat after a rough start, per TSN, with Oilers also mentioned in league chatter.