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Q and A with Buffalo Sabres Beat Reporter Bill Hoppe

The Buffalo Sabres are off and running as hockey is back already. Isn’t it amazing how fast this particular season comes back after ending in mid to late June?

I sat down with Bill Hoppe from the Buffalo Hockey Beat for a season preview. We know the main thing Buffalo fans want. Bill knows this team inside and out. Enjoy.

ML: Is there anything bigger than making the playoffs for this team that I am missing, Bill?

BH: No, as I’ve stated before in these chats, simply making the playoffs would lift a black cloud that has hovered over the franchise. In reality, it’s a modest goal. Sixteen of the 32 teams make the postseason, so you’re in the top half of the NHL. But for the Sabres, simply getting in after 14 years would be massive.

ML: How does this playoff drought compare to the Bills’ one? Similarities and differences?

BH: The Bills had some bad teams, but they were mostly pretty average during their run of futility. The Sabres have finished dead last four times. They’ve consistently bottomed out.

ML: Biggest player storyline?

BH: I’d say goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Right now, we don’t know if he’ll be available at the start of the season. But whenever he plays, he must be better than last year. At his best, he gives the Sabres a chance every night. If he plays like he did in 2024-25, the Sabres could be in trouble.

ML: When will Devon Levi actually be ready to play consistently in goal for this team?

BH: It’s my feeling they want him to essentially spend all season in Rochester. Goalies

ML: What’s the style for Lindy Ruff this year? DNA? Systems? Any changes?

BH: He likely wants them to play a tighter, grittier style, The Sabres have plenty of skill. It’s more about preventing goals and wearing teams down.

ML: Non-season question. Favorite Sabre you have ever covered and talked to.

BH: This is a tough question because there are so many to choose from. I’ll give you three: Matt Ellis, Cody McCormick and Don Granato. I’m sure I’m leaving some guys out.

ML: Thanks Bill. Appreciate it and keep up your awesome coverage.

BH: You’re very welcome, Mike!

Mike Lindsley
Follow Mike Lindsley on Twitter @MikeLSports and download his podcast the “ML Sports Platter” on Apple Podcasts, Google Play and Spotify.