Buffalo earned a 5-3 win over Pittsburgh in a lively preseason clash in Buffalo. Tristan Broz opened the scoring on a Penguins power play, Buffalo answered with a dynamic sequence from Krebs to Norris, and Matt Dumba and Filip Hallander added to a back-and-forth first half. Ville Koivunen struck again to reset the momentum, and Rasmus Dahlin punctuated Buffalo’s pace before Hallander iced it with an empty-net clincher.

Silovs impressed in goal for Pittsburgh, Luukkonen exited with a lower-body issue for Buffalo, and the night underscored growth from Penguins youngsters like Ben Kindel and Harrison Brunicke. Owen Pickering and Jack St. Ivany flashed potential while questions about who earns an opening-night roster spot lingered, especially with Broz and Hayes showcasing versatile, high-energy games.

Six NHL breakout candidates for 2025-26 could reshape fantasy rosters: Connor Bedard should push toward an 85–90 point pace with expanded minutes and rising shooting efficiency in Chicago. Quinton Byfield is poised to anchor the Kings’ top six, taking on tougher minutes and PP time en route to a 30-goal, 45-assist season. Matty Beniers enters classic two-way breakout territory, while Zach Benson could double his production with better linemates in Buffalo. Cole Perfetti and Logan Stankoven also carry clear routes to 70-plus point seasons with more ice time and power-play exposure. Dylan Guenther and Matthew Knies serve as reminders that big roles are often the gateway to fantasy relevance, even if their teams are rebuilding.

Buffalo Sabres management faces a critical juncture as they grapple with player retention and a potential exodus. The Sabres have missed the playoffs for 14 consecutive years, prompting discussions about whether trading key players like Bowen Byram might prevent further unrest within the team. Analysts, including Bruce Boudreau, argue that trading one unhappy player could set a detrimental precedent, leading to a larger exodus.

On a more positive note, there are encouraging signs for the Sabres, as Alex Tuch is in talks for a long-term extension. With core players like Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin secured, the focus shifts towards building a cohesive and competitive roster instead of continuously reshaping the core. The Sabres must balance immediate improvements while fostering a stable environment that encourages player commitment.