Bruins and Sabres Face Off in Game 1 of Playoffs

The two teams meet for the fifth time this season as the Eastern Conference first round begins.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:26pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in motion, with players and the puck represented through overlapping angular shapes in shades of blue, gold, and black.The Bruins and Sabres renew their playoff rivalry, with both teams seeking to advance in the Eastern Conference first round.Boston Today

The Boston Bruins and Buffalo Sabres will face off on Sunday to start the Eastern Conference first round of the NHL playoffs. The teams met four times during the regular season, with the Bruins winning three of those matchups.

Why it matters

This series marks the first playoff meeting between the Bruins and Sabres since 2010. Both teams are looking to advance in the postseason, with the Bruins seeking their first Stanley Cup since 2011 and the Sabres aiming to end their 11-year playoff drought.

The details

The Bruins went 3-1 against the Sabres in the regular season, outscoring Buffalo 13-9 over the four games. Boston is led by veteran forwards Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand, while the Sabres are paced by rising star Tage Thompson and veteran goaltender Craig Anderson.

  • The game is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Patrice Bergeron

A veteran forward and four-time Selke Trophy winner who has been the heart and soul of the Bruins for nearly two decades.

Brad Marchand

A skilled winger and longtime linemate of Bergeron, known for his scoring touch and physical edge.

Tage Thompson

A rising star for the Sabres, Thompson broke out with 38 goals and 68 points in the regular season.

Craig Anderson

The veteran Sabres goaltender who will be counted on to keep Buffalo in the series against the high-powered Bruins offense.

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What they’re saying

“We know the Bruins are a tough team, but we're ready for the challenge. Our guys have been working hard all season to get to this point.”

— Don Granato, Head Coach, Buffalo Sabres

“The playoffs are a whole new season. We've had some good battles with Buffalo, but that doesn't matter now. We have to be ready to play our best hockey.”

— Patrice Bergeron

What’s next

Game 2 of the series will be played on Tuesday, April 21 in Buffalo.

The takeaway

This first-round matchup between the Bruins and Sabres features two teams with contrasting styles and playoff experience. Boston's veteran core will look to use its postseason pedigree to overcome Buffalo's youthful energy and talent.