Sabres Set Home Opener Against Blackhawks
The Buffalo Sabres will begin their 2026‑27 home slate on October 3, opening the season against the Chicago Blackhawks. The matchup gains extra significance because Chicago recently acquired Bowen Byram, the defenseman the Sabres traded away earlier this summer.
The NHL announced the home openers for all 32 clubs on Thursday, unveiling the first handful of games that will kick off the upcoming season. While the complete 84‑game schedule will be released later, the early slate already outlines key narrative storylines for fans to follow.
Buffalo is also slated to play in Columbus on October 1, a road game that could serve as the team’s official season opener depending on logistics. Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekalainen, who spent 11 years as GM of the Columbus Blue Jackets, brings a familiar connection to the Blue Jackets organization.
The trade that sent Byram to Chicago adds a personal angle to the October 3 contest, as the 22‑year‑old will be looking to showcase his growth against the organization that once drafted him. Sabres supporters will be watching closely to see how the former first‑round pick performs in his first game against his old teammates.
The NHL’s decision to expand the regular‑season schedule reflects a broader push to increase competition and provide more marketable matchups throughout the year. The league hopes the added games will boost viewership and give teams more flexibility in managing injuries and fatigue.
As the Sabres prepare for the new campaign, the excitement is tempered by a grueling travel schedule and the need to integrate new pieces into a roster that finished near the bottom of the league last season. Yet the early home games offer a chance to build momentum and rally the fan base around a fresh start.