Sabres Clinch Atlantic Division Title with Rout of Blackhawks

Buffalo secures playoff spot with dominant 5-1 win over Chicago

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract hockey game, with players and the ice surface broken down into overlapping planes of blue, gold, and white.The Sabres' division-clinching victory over the Blackhawks showcases the team's dynamic, high-energy style of play.Ottawa Today

The Buffalo Sabres clinched the Atlantic Division title with a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday. Tage Thompson scored twice and Alex Tuch had a goal and assist as the Sabres wrapped up their first division crown in 14 seasons.

Why it matters

The Sabres' division title and return to the playoffs after a long drought marks a significant turnaround for the franchise, which has struggled for years to build a consistent winner. The team's young core, led by Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin, has finally broken through to the postseason.

The details

Buffalo jumped out to a 3-1 lead by the third period, capitalizing on Blackhawks turnovers to score three unanswered goals. Thompson, the Sabres' leading scorer, netted his 40th goal of the season, while Tuch and Josh Norris also found the back of the net. Rookie Ryan Greene scored the lone goal for Chicago.

  • The Sabres clinched the Atlantic Division title on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • Buffalo snapped a 14-season playoff drought earlier this month.

The players

Tage Thompson

The Sabres' leading scorer, who tallied two goals in the division-clinching win.

Alex Tuch

Buffalo forward who had a goal and assist in the victory.

Rasmus Dahlin

Sabres defenseman who recorded two assists in the game.

Ryan Greene

Rookie forward for the Blackhawks who scored Chicago's lone goal.

Spencer Knight

Blackhawks goaltender who made 21 saves in the loss.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must have been a little sluggish early, but once we got our legs under us, I thought we played a really solid game and took care of business. This is a big accomplishment for our group.”

— Tage Thompson, Sabres Forward

What’s next

The Sabres will open the playoffs against either the Boston Bruins or the Ottawa Senators.

The takeaway

Buffalo's division title and return to the postseason after a lengthy drought is a testament to the team's young core and their ability to break through as a consistent winner in the NHL. The Sabres' success this season has reinvigorated the franchise and its fanbase, setting the stage for what could be an exciting playoff run.