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Official podcast of Expected Buffalo which is an analytics focused website covering the Buffalo Sabres, hosted by Chad DeDominicis and Anthony Sciandra
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Transcribed
14 OCT 2026 · In this episode of the Expected Buffalo Post Game Show, we reflect on the Sabres' recent performance, where they managed to secure three out of four points against Florida and Montreal. While the games weren't perfect, there were positive signs reminiscent of last season's resilience.
We discussed the importance of viewing the season as a marathon, especially with back-to-back games against division rivals and key players like Rasmus Dahlin missing. The team's ability to battle back from a 3-1 deficit to tie the game against Montreal was a highlight.
We highlighted key players, including Luke, who played a crucial role in securing a point against Montreal, and Olem Zellweger, who stepped up with two significant goals. We also praised Noah Ostlund and Zach Benson for their consistent performances, while noting some struggles from Jack Quinn and the inconsistencies of Jiri Kulich and Kosta Helenius.
As we look ahead to upcoming games against Toronto and Montreal, we recognize that while the season start hasn't been ideal, there are encouraging signs. The team is generating offense and showing resilience, which bodes well for the future. We aim to build on these performances and hope to see special teams improve as well.
00:22 - Assessing the Recent Games
02:08 - Player Highlights: Luukkonen and Zellweger
06:01 - Ostlund and Benson's Contributions
08:56 - Jack Quinn's Struggles
10:51 - Inconsistencies of Kulich and Helenius
12:30 - Overall Team Performance and Outlook
14:18 - Looking Ahead: Upcoming Games
Sponsor: Richmond Vona
Transcribed
7 OCT 2026 · In this episode of the Expected Buffalo postgame show, I reflected on an exhilarating game that brought back memories of last season's thrilling comebacks. Despite being down two goals after two periods, I felt it was the team's most complete performance of the season. The players showed better transition movement, a strong forecheck, and a synchronized defense, reminiscent of last year's squad.
Owen Power was the standout player, arguably having his best game as a Sabre. His third-period contributions were pivotal, culminating in the overtime winner. I praised his ability to hold the puck and make smart plays, which exemplified the team's offensive philosophy of making the extra pass.
Colten Ellis faced some challenges early on but rebounded with crucial saves in the third period and overtime, earning him the starting position for the next game against Dallas. The Ostlund-Benson-Quinn line continued to impress, showcasing speed and confidence, while the new fourth line performed well defensively.
However, I noted concerns about the first line of Thompson, Norris, and Doan, which struggled for the third consecutive game.
Overall, the team showed signs of improvement and resilience, which is promising for the season ahead.
Sponsor: https://www.richmondvona.com/
Transcribed
2 OCT 2026 · In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the Buffalo Sabres' disappointing 6-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets in their season opener.
We started by analyzing the line combinations, particularly Tage Thompson playing center and Norris' performance, which I felt didn't contribute much after a promising start. I also highlighted Jack Quinn's strong performance, noting his aggressive forechecking and scoring opportunities, including a near-tying goal that hit the post.
Special teams were a significant focus, as the Sabres went 0 for 5 on the power play, including a lackluster two-minute 5-on-3. I expressed my frustration with the power play's stagnant movement, which mirrored last year's struggles. The penalty kill allowed two goals, and I questioned the decision to have Jack Quinn on the PK, although I didn't blame him for the goals.
Goaltending was another topic of discussion, with our goalie finishing the game at 76% save percentage. While I felt he could have made a couple more saves, I emphasized that the defense needed to tie up sticks better in front of the net.
Looking ahead, I stressed the importance of the upcoming home opener against the Chicago Blackhawks and the need to capitalize on a five-game homestand. With tough opponents on the horizon, the Sabres must start strong and build momentum early in the season.
01:09 - Line Combinations and Player Performances
02:56 - Jack Quinn's Strong Performance
04:02 - Power Play Struggles
08:14 - Goaltending Performance Review
11:01 - Positives from the Game
12:35 - Kulich's Ice Time
15:44 - Looking Ahead: Upcoming Games and Expectations
Sponsor: https://www.richmondvona.com/
Transcribed
1 OCT 2026 · In this episode of the Expected Buffalo podcast, we dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming Buffalo Sabres season, which kicks off tomorrow in Columbus.
We reflect on the significant shift in mindset for the Sabres, who are entering the season after a playoff run for the first time in 15 years. The pressure is no longer about breaking a playoff drought, but about proving last year's success wasn't a fluke. We emphasize the importance of patience as the team navigates the long 84-game season, encouraging fans to take a more measured approach to the season's ups and downs.
We highlight the Atlantic Division as one of the league's toughest and analyze the competition, including teams like Florida, Tampa Bay, and Toronto. We discuss the Sabres' scoring potential, special teams, and goaltending situation, expressing confidence in their ability to score goals despite some roster changes.
As we wrap up, I share my season predictions.
Finally, we preview the opening night matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets, discussing the Sabres' lineup changes and the challenges they may face.
02:00 - Lineup News and Injuries
04:00 - High-Level Overview of the Sabres
08:00 - Atlantic Division Analysis
16:00 - Scoring Potential
19:00 - Special Teams Overview
22:00 - Goaltending Situation
27:00 - Season Predictions
30:00 - Game Preview: Sabres vs. Blue Jackets
Sponsors: https://wesewitbuffalo.com/ | https://www.richmondvona.com/
Transcribed
29 SEP 2026 · The Buffalo Sabres announced their opening night roster, which will feature 14 forwards, six defensemen, and three goaltenders.
One surprise was Conor Timmins going on injured reserve to start the season, meaning he'll miss the opener on Thursday.
Sponsors: https://wesewitbuffalo.com/ | https://www.richmondvona.com/
Transcribed
28 SEP 2026 · In this short shift episode of Expected Buffalo, I dive into the conclusion of the Sabres' preseason, focusing primarily on the injuries that have impacted the team as we approach the regular season.
The goaltending situation is particularly pressing, with Alex Lyon and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen both injured, leaving Colten Ellis as the only healthy goaltender. I discuss the implications and Ellis' potential to take on a starting role as the season begins. Although he didn't get a start in the preseason, I was impressed with Ellis' performance when he stepped in, noting his calm, confident presence in the crease.
Additionally, I touch on the Sabres' recent signing of veteran defenseman Matt Grzelcyk and the team's roster decisions as they prepare for the regular season. With roster announcements due soon, I speculate on who might end up on injured reserve and how that will affect the lineup.
As we gear up for the NHL season, I express my excitement for the upcoming games and encourage listeners to subscribe to Expected Buffalo for more content. I also highlight our goal of reaching 1,000 subscribers on YouTube before the season starts, emphasizing the community's support in achieving this milestone.
00:12 - Preseason Wrap-Up and Injury Overview
01:46 - Goaltending Injury Concerns
06:40 - Roster Decisions and Waivers
10:02 - Jiri Kulich's Situation
Sponsors: https://wesewitbuffalo.com/| https://www.richmondvona.com/
Transcribed
24 SEP 2026 · In this episode of "The Short Shift," we dive into the pressing topic of injuries on the blue line following our second preseason game. We discuss the current status of Mattias Samuelsson, who is out with a lower-body injury and is expected to be week-to-week, and Olen Zellweger, who is in concussion protocol. While I believe Zellweger may return for the season opener, Samuelsson's situation is more concerning, and I emphasize the importance of him taking the time he needs to recover fully.
We also explore the implications of these injuries on the team's defensive lineup, particularly the increased pressure on Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. I express reservations about pairing them, as it could limit our overall defensive effectiveness. Instead, I highlight the opportunity for players like Louis Crevier and Zach Metsa to step up and fill the gaps left by the injured defensemen.
Additionally, we touch on the organizational depth at defense, addressing concerns about relying on players like Ryan Johnson and Dennis Gilbert. I reassure listeners that while depth is always a concern, I believe the team is well-equipped to handle these early-season challenges.
Finally, I answer a fan question about organizational depth, reiterating my confidence in our current roster and our players' ability to step up when needed.
01:07 - Injuries on the Blue Line
01:50 - Olen Zellweger's Concussion Protocol
02:55 - Mattias Samuelsson's Lower Body Injury
05:35 - Opportunities for Other Defensemen
08:27 - Roster Battles for Defensemen
10:46 - Fan Question on Organizational Depth
Sponsor: https://www.richmondvona.com/ | https://wesewitbuffalo.com/
Transcribed
23 SEP 2026 · The Buffalo Sabres won their second preseason game against the Columbus Blue Jackets by a score of 5-1.
I discussed a few notes, mostly good but with some bad news too, from the game.
Power play
Penalty kill forwards
Ostlund and Benson
McLeod and Norris rotation at center
Samuelsson and Zellweger injuries
Presented by https://www.richmondvona.com/
Transcribed
22 SEP 2026 · In this episode of Expected Buffalo, I dive into the excitement of game night as the Sabres face off against the Penguins in their preseason opener. I share my thoughts on the teams' performance, noting that both rosters featured mostly AHL players. I highlight a few key players to watch, including Jiri Kulich, who returned to the ice after a significant injury, and Radim Mrtka, who showed signs of improvement as the game progressed.
I also discuss the power play, which saw a goal from Jake Richard, showcasing his scoring ability. The episode also covers the analytics team's recent power-play report, which aims to improve the team's performance in this area. I emphasize the importance of data-driven decisions and the need for creativity in the Sabres' power play strategy.
Looking ahead, I preview the upcoming game against the Columbus Blue Jackets and anticipate a more NHL-heavy lineup. I address the new preseason rules that limit how many games experienced players can play, adding complexity to roster decisions. The episode concludes by highlighting the key player series starting tomorrow, focusing on Mattias Samuelsson and his crucial role in the team's defense.
As always, I encourage listeners to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more content throughout the season. Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to discussing the next game with you!
03:20 - Game Analysis: Sabres vs. Penguins
06:10 - Power Play Report Discussion
10:36 - Power Play Strategies and Improvements
15:55 - Upcoming Game Preview: Sabres vs. Blue Jackets
19:29 - Preseason Rules and Roster Decisions
22:56 - Key Player Series Introduction
Sponsors: https://www.richmondvona.com/ | https://wesewitbuffalo.com/
Transcribed
15 SEP 2026 · In this episode of the Expected Buffalo podcast, we introduce a new format for our show, moving away from the traditional offering name and style. We're excited to present shorter, quick-hitter episodes that offer concise insights and updates, ideally multiple times a week.
Today, we focus on the recent eight-year contract Noah Ostlund signed with the Sabres, worth $6.6 million in average annual value. We discuss the contract's implications, including its bonus structure and no-trade clause, as well as Ostlund's performance metrics. Despite having played only 60 games last season, Ostlund showed promise as a two-way player, contributing significantly when on the ice. We acknowledge the potential risks, particularly regarding his injury history, but ultimately view this contract as a proactive and smart move for the Sabres' future.
Official podcast of Expected Buffalo which is an analytics focused website covering the Buffalo Sabres, hosted by Chad DeDominicis and Anthony Sciandra
Information
| Author | Expected Buffalo |
| Organization | Expected Buffalo |
| Categories | Hockey |
| Website | www.expectedbuffalo.com |
| cdedo1988@gmail.com |
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