Lindy Ruff’s return to the Buffalo Sabres represents a unique opportunity: a third chance to achieve success with the same team. Ruff, who played for the Sabres from 1979 to 1989 and coached them from 1997 to 2013, led the team to the Stanley Cup Final in 1999 and reached the playoffs several times.
Despite these accomplishments, the Sabres have yet to secure a Stanley Cup victory and are currently facing the longest playoff drought in the NHL, having missed the postseason since 2011.
As he embarks on his new season as head coach, hired to replace Don Granato in April 2024, Ruff is acutely aware of the challenges ahead. His primary goal is not just to end the team’s playoff drought but to win the Stanley Cup itself.
He stated unequivocally that “get it done” means securing that ultimate championship, highlighting the importance of success in this phase of his coaching career. At 64 years old, with an extensive coaching resume that includes 1,774 regular-season games—ranking fourth in NHL history—Ruff is poised to make an impact this season.
Ruff’s deep connection to Buffalo enhances the significance of his role. Having lived in the city since his playing days, he is well-integrated into the community, attending local sporting events and forming lasting friendships.
This familiarity and commitment add a layer of pressure, but he views it as a humbling opportunity to lead his hometown team. His personal investment in the Sabres underscores the urgency to deliver results, knowing this may be his last opportunity to achieve NHL success.
The Sabres’ management sees Ruff’s extensive experience as critical to the team’s current needs. General manager Kevyn Adams emphasized the importance of bringing in a coach who can provide clarity and hold players accountable. Ruff’s track record, including 11 playoff appearances, positions him as the right leader to guide the team through the challenges of the upcoming season. His leadership style aims to instill a disciplined and hard-working mentality, setting the tone for the players to follow.
As the Sabres prepare for the regular season, their training camp and preseason performances have shown promise. The team’s commitment to Ruff’s game plan has been evident in their early successes, with victories showcasing a focused and detail-oriented approach.
Players like Tage Thompson have noted the positive changes in the team’s mindset, emphasizing the importance of hard work over showcasing skill. With Ruff’s guidance, the hope is that the Sabres can emulate the turnaround experienced by the New Jersey Devils during his previous coaching tenure, culminating in a successful season that breaks the team’s playoff drought.
